double standard

noun

1

: a set of principles that applies differently and usually more rigorously to one group of people or circumstances than to another

especially : a code of morals that applies more severe standards of sexual behavior to women than to men

2

: bimetallism

Examples of double standard in a Sentence

She argued that society applies a double standard in dealing with women who commit adultery.

Recent Examples on the Web

There is a [different] double standard — women have been monstrously exploited and men haven’t. —Shania Russell, EW.com, 18 Mar. 2025

This season hints at everything from workplace microaggressions and double standards, to empty diversity initiatives and even Black resistance. —Banseka Kayembe, refinery29.com, 17 Mar. 2025

In an interview with Rolling Stone, Grace said that the purpose of the song was to open people’s eyes to the double standard of gender constructs today. —Stephen Daw, Billboard, 13 Mar. 2025

MacDougall questioned the wayward politics and the double standard that exist in Liberia but on a global scale. —Edna Bonhomme, Rolling Stone, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for double standard

• meandered
• nonstandard
• substandard
• slandered

Kids Definition

double standard

noun

: a set of standards that applies differently and usually more harshly to one group of people or circumstances than to another