Stigmatized: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'stigmatized' comes from the noun 'stigma,' which originates from the Greek word 'stigma,' meaning 'a mark' or 'punctured.' In Greek culture, it referred to marks made on the skin or a branding mark applied to slaves or criminals. Over time, 'stigma' evolved to represent a negative perception or label attached to an individual or group, especially in regard to social attributes like mental illness, sexual orientation, or disease. The transformation from a mere mark to a metaphorical representation of social disapproval occurred in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially with the works of sociologists and psychologists who examined the effects of labeling and discrimination. As society progressed, the term 'stigmatized' came to portray the consequences of prejudice and the deep-seated biases that influence the way individuals are treated based on perceived differences.

Positioned at #22,212, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 22209 speculator
• 22210 titular
• 22211 june
• 22212 stigmatized
• 22213 scornfully
• 22214 tepid
• 22215 falter
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