favoritism

noun

fa·​vor·​it·​ism ˈfā-v(ə-)rə-ˌti-zəm How to pronounce favoritism (audio)
ˈfā-vər-
1
: the showing of special favor : partiality
2
: the state or fact of being a favorite

Examples of favoritism in a Sentence

He accused the teacher of showing favoritism in assigning grades.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The group also protested what members called the state's favoritism toward Christians in allowing events inside. CBS News, 29 Mar. 2025 In the grand scheme of things, what’s a little favoritism toward your objects of desire? Samantha Allen, Them, 25 Mar. 2025 Excluding people from positions or forms of access, no matter their qualifications, to give those less qualified opportunities as a form of favoritism is wrong. Erik Sherman, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025 Part of identity formation is not just out-group derogation but in-group favoritism. Julia Standefer, The Conversation, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for favoritism

Word History

First Known Use

1763, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of favoritism was in 1763

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Cite this Entry

“Favoritism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/favoritism. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

favoritism

noun
fa·​vor·​it·​ism ˈfāv-(ə-)rət-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce favoritism (audio)
: unfairly favorable treatment of some while neglecting others

More from Merriam-Webster on favoritism

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