Minority: meaning, definitions and examples

👥
Add to dictionary

minority

 

[ mɪˈnɒrɪti ]

Context #1 | Noun

in politics

The smaller number or part, especially a number that is less than half the whole number. In politics, a group of people that differ in some way from the larger group in which they are a part, typically with less power or influence.

Synonyms

lesser part, oppressed group, subgroup

Examples of usage

  • The bill was passed despite strong opposition from the minority.
  • The minority group fought for their rights to be recognized.
Context #2 | Noun

in society

A group of people that differ in some way from the larger group in which they are a part, typically with less power or influence.

Synonyms

less dominant group, small group, underrepresented group

Examples of usage

  • The minority voice in the organization was often overlooked.
  • The minority population faced discrimination in the region.

Translations

Translations of the word "minority" in other languages:

🇵🇹 minoria

🇮🇳 अल्पसंख्यक

🇩🇪 Minderheit

🇮🇩 minoritas

🇺🇦 меншість

🇵🇱 mniejszość

🇯🇵 少数派

🇫🇷 minorité

🇪🇸 minoría

🇹🇷 azınlık

🇰🇷 소수

🇸🇦 أقلية

🇨🇿 menšina

🇸🇰 menšina

🇨🇳 少数

🇸🇮 manjšina

🇮🇸 minnihluti

🇰🇿 азшылық

🇬🇪 უმცირესობა

🇦🇿 azlıq

🇲🇽 minoría

Etymology

The word 'minority' originated from the Latin word 'minoritas', which means 'smaller number or part'. The concept of minority groups has been significant in various fields, including politics, sociology, and civil rights movements. These groups often face challenges related to representation, discrimination, and power dynamics within larger societies. Understanding and addressing the needs of minority populations is crucial for promoting equality and inclusivity.

See also: minor, minors.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,798, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.