ableism

noun

able·​ism ˈā-bə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce ableism (audio)
: discrimination or prejudice against individuals with disabilities
ableist adjective

Examples of ableism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
This assumption is often associated with benevolent ableism, a paternalistic bias that may appear to be an expression of caring but serves to hold back the success of neurodivergent and disabled talent. Ludmila Praslova, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 The ableism of those jokes adds a layer of dustiness. Akilah Sailers, Essence, 30 Sep. 2024 Elsewhere, in a section devoted to self-fashioning, Collins highlights the ableism of mainstream fashion design. K. L. H. Wells, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2024 Barbarin, who has cerebral palsy, offered her insight on the ableism that’s taken place in these conversations around Boseman, his cancer and his work, and the harm caused by romanticizing and weaponizing the ways in which disabled people choose to live their lives. Lisa Deaderick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Sep. 2020 See all Example Sentences for ableism 

Word History

Etymology

-able (in disable, disabled) + -ism

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ableism was in 1976

Dictionary Entries Near ableism

Cite this Entry

“Ableism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ableism. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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