Ostracism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
ostracism
[หษstrษsษชz(ษ)m ]
Definition
social exclusion
Ostracism refers to the act of intentionally ignoring or excluding someone from a social group or setting. It can involve deliberate isolation or exclusion, often resulting in feelings of loneliness and rejection.
Synonyms
exclusion, isolation, shunning.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ostracism |
Used when someone is deliberately excluded from a group or society, often as a form of punishment. This term is formal and commonly found in academic or serious discussions.
|
| exclusion |
Applied in situations where someone is intentionally left out or not allowed to participate. It can range from formal settings, like school or work, to informal social situations.
|
| isolation |
Used to describe a state where an individual is physically or emotionally separated from others. This can be voluntary or involuntary and usually indicates a broader and more severe form of separation.
|
| shunning |
Implied when someone is deliberately avoided or ignored, usually as a form of social punishment. Tends to have a more personal and emotional connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- Her ostracism from the group left her feeling isolated and alone.
- After the incident, he faced ostracism from his colleagues at work.
- Their ostracism of the new student was evident in their refusal to include him in group activities.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term comes from ancient Greece, where citizens used pottery fragments called 'ostraka' to vote on whether someone should be exiled.
- Ostracism in Athens was a political tool aimed at protecting democracy by preventing the rise of dictators.
- Individuals could be ostracized for ten years, but they could return to their community after that time.
Psychology
- Experiencing ostracism can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.
- Rejection sensitivity is heightened in individuals who have experienced ostracism, making them more vulnerable to future social exclusion.
- Research shows that being ostracized can affect brain activity in the same way as physical pain.
Cultural Impact
- In some cultures, collective action against an individual, called 'social exclusion', serves as a way to enforce social norms and cohesion.
- Many famous literary works, such as 'The Catcher in the Rye', depict characters who experience ostracism, reflecting societal repercussions.
- Modern social media can amplify feelings of ostracism as individuals may feel ignored or bullied online, impacting mental health.
Literature
- In 'The Crucible', the theme of ostracism manifests through the witch trials, illustrating how fear of exclusion can lead to mass hysteria.
- In the story of 'The Aeneid', characters face exile and social exclusion due to their choices, highlighting the human consequences of ostracism.
- Many novels involve protagonists who navigate the complexities of friendship and belonging, often showcasing the dynamics of ostracism.
Sociology
- Ostracism can serve as a mechanism for social control, guiding group behavior by punishing those who deviate from accepted norms.
- Studies suggest that groups are more likely to ostracize individuals who threaten their unity, highlighting the fragile nature of social bonds.
- Ostracism can also lead to positive change, as those who are excluded may advocate for reform within the group or society.
Origin of 'ostracism'
The term 'ostracism' originated from ancient Greece, where citizens would cast secret ballots to banish a person deemed a threat to the state for a period of ten years. This practice was known as 'ostrakismos' and was used as a way to maintain social order and harmony. Over time, the concept of ostracism has evolved to encompass social exclusion in various contexts, highlighting the impact of isolation on individuals and communities.
See also: ostracize, ostracized.