Segregated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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segregated

[ˈsɛɡrɪˌɡeɪtɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

social

Separated or isolated from others or a main group, often based on race, ethnicity, or gender. Segregated communities may lack equal access to resources and opportunities.

Synonyms

divided, isolated, separated.

Examples of usage

  • Segregated schools were common in the United States before the Civil Rights Movement.
  • In some countries, certain ethnic groups are still segregated from the rest of the population.
Context #2 | Verb

action

To set apart or separate people or things based on a specific characteristic. Segregating individuals can lead to discrimination and inequality.

Synonyms

divide, isolate, separate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
segregated

Used to describe a setting where groups are kept apart, usually based on characteristics like race, gender, or social status. Often has a negative connotation.

  • The school was segregated by race until the civil rights movement.
  • They fought to end the segregated seating in public transportation.
separate

Used in both physical and abstract senses to describe keeping things apart. Generally neutral, can also imply a need for distinction between items or people.

  • We need to separate the recyclables from the trash.
  • They decided to separate their professional and personal lives.
divide

Used when splitting something into parts, either physically or metaphorically. Can be neutral or slightly negative.

  • Let's divide the cake into eight pieces.
  • The issue divided the community.
isolate

Used to describe the action of keeping someone or something separate from others, often for safety or health reasons. Can also be used metaphorically.

  • Scientists isolate the virus to study it.
  • He felt isolated from his friends during the quarantine.

Examples of usage

  • The policy of segregating students based on their academic performance has been criticized.
  • The company was accused of segregating employees based on their gender.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • This term comes from Latin roots 'segregare,' meaning to separate or set apart.
  • In the early 1900s, laws in the United States enforced separation in schools and public places based on race.
  • The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s aimed to end segregation and promote equality for all.

Social Sciences

  • Segregation can affect people's access to resources, education, and services, leading to social disparities.
  • Research shows that segregation in schools can impact students' academic performance and social skills.
  • Many countries have seen conflicts over segregation, where different ethnic or social groups struggle for rights and acceptance.

Psychology

  • Segregated environments can lead to 'in-group' and 'out-group' mentalities, shaping attitudes towards others.
  • Studies indicate that individuals raised in segregated settings may develop biases against those from different backgrounds.
  • Exposure to diversity has been linked to greater empathy and understanding among individuals.

Literature

  • Books like 'To Kill a Mockingbird' highlight the impact of segregation on society and individual lives.
  • Literature often explores themes of connection and separation, using segregation as a backdrop for character development.
  • Authors use metaphors of segregation to discuss broader societal issues, such as inequality and justice.

Pop Culture

  • Films like 'Remember the Titans' portray the struggles against segregation in schools and sports.
  • Music has long been a medium for protesting segregation, with artists using their platforms to advocate for change.
  • Television shows often depict the personal stories of those affected by segregation, making the topic relatable and poignant.

Origin of 'segregated'

The word 'segregated' comes from the Latin word 'segregatus', which means 'set apart'. The concept of segregation has a long history, particularly in the United States, where racial segregation was enforced through laws and policies. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s brought attention to the injustices of segregation and led to legal changes to promote integration and equality.


See also: segregatable, segregate, segregation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,276, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.