ableism

/ˈeɪbəlɪzəm/
noun★Intermediate— discrimination against people with disabilities
formal

Discrimination or prejudice against individuals with disabilities, often based on the assumption that they are inferior or less capable.

Ableism in the workplace can prevent qualified candidates from being hired.

Discrimination against disabled job applicants can occur due to societal biases.

💡

Ableism can manifest in various forms, including physical barriers, exclusionary policies, or harmful stereotypes.

Collocations

ableist languagewords or phrases that perpetuate discrimination against disabled peopleableist attitudesbeliefs that reinforce the inferiority of disabled individuals

Related Phrases

invisible disabilitiesphrase
disabilities that are not immediately apparent (e.g., chronic pain, mental health conditions)
accessibilityphrase
the design of products, devices, services, or environments for people with disabilities

💡Pro Tip

Recognize ableist language

Avoid phrases like 'wheelchair-bound' or 'suffers from a disability'—use person-first language instead (e.g., 'person with a disability').

⚡Gold Rule

Ableism is systemic

Ableism is not just individual prejudice but also embedded in policies, media, and cultural norms.

📖Word Origin

Derived from 'able' + '-ism' (a suffix indicating a system of discrimination or prejudice). Coined in the late 20th century to describe systemic discrimination against disabled people.

📝Usage Notes

Ableism is often unintentional and deeply ingrained in societal structures. It can be overt (e.g., refusing to hire disabled individuals) or subtle (e.g., using language that devalues disability).

Word Breakdown

able
capable or having the power to act
root
+
-ism
a system of discrimination or prejudice
suffix
English Dictionary