What does "intersectionality" mean?
The quality or state of being intersectional, that is, of being characterized by intersection (especially of multiple forms of discrimination).
Intersectionality
/ɪntəˌsɛkʃəˈnælɪti/ noun
noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: The quality or state of being intersectional, that is, of being characterized by intersection (especially of multiple forms of discrimination).
- Grammar: intersectionality is listed as noun.
- Nearest alternatives: cross-sectionality.
- Usage evidence: Every February, I, along with many others across the nation, commemorate Black History Month and celebrate an important aspect of my diverse cultural heritage. Like most Americans, I’m the sum of many parts, an amalgam of intersecting identities. I am Black, a woman and a proud disabled veteran, to name a few. The intersectionality of my heritage and lived experiences is unique to me and makes me who I am.
How to use "intersectionality"
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Meaning check
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Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "intersectionality" in a final draft.
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Before you rely on this definition
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Compare nearby meanings
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Definition decision workflow
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Final meaning check
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Definitions
Noun
- 1 The quality or state of being intersectional, that is, of being characterized by intersection (especially of multiple forms of discrimination). countable, uncountable
"the intersectionality of these issues"
- 2 The study of (or a sociological methodology of studying) overlapping or intersecting social identities and related systems of oppression, domination, or discrimination. countable, uncountable
"One way to approach the problem of intersectionality is to examine how courts frame and interpret the stories of Black women plaintiffs."
Synonyms
All synonymsExample
"Every February, I, along with many others across the nation, commemorate Black History Month and celebrate an important aspect of my diverse cultural heritage. Like most Americans, I’m the sum of many parts, an amalgam of intersecting identities. I am Black, a woman and a proud disabled veteran, to name a few. The intersectionality of my heritage and lived experiences is unique to me and makes me who I am."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "intersectionality"?
Common synonyms include: cross-sectionality.
How do you use "intersectionality" in a sentence?
Every February, I, along with many others across the nation, commemorate Black History Month and celebrate an important aspect of my diverse cultural heritage. Like most Americans, I’m the sum of many parts, an amalgam of intersecting identities. I am Black, a woman and a proud disabled veteran, to name a few. The intersectionality of my heritage and lived experiences is unique to me and makes me who I am.
How do you pronounce "intersectionality"?
Pronounced /ɪntəˌsɛkʃəˈnælɪti/.
Etymology
From intersectional + -ity.