homophobia

noun

ho·​mo·​pho·​bia ˌhō-mə-ˈfō-bē-ə How to pronounce homophobia (audio)
: discrimination against, aversion to, or fear of homosexuality or gay people compare transphobia
homophobic adjective

Examples of homophobia in a Sentence

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.
Greek inclusion growing Although fraternities and sororities have a history of homophobia, Greek life today is more diverse and inclusive than ever, observes Douglas N. Case, former coordinator of fraternity and sorority life at San Diego State University and an initiate of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Matt Alderton, USA Today, 18 June 2025 As a result, viewers might begin to understand why the famed astronaut chose to avoid further scrutiny, and likely homophobia, because of her public-facing role as NASA’s poster girl. Manuel Betancourt, Los Angeles Times, 16 June 2025 The comment was in answer to how Friends, in its second resurgence in the streaming era, was receiving some criticism for some of its problematic elements, i.e. the lack of diversity, homophobia, sexism, etc. Stephanie Sengwe, People.com, 7 June 2025 Unfortunately, that’s not how many spectators seemed to see it; few decried the obvious homophobia in those bars. Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 23 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for homophobia

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of homophobia was in 1964

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Homophobia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/homophobia. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

homophobia

noun
ho·​mo·​pho·​bia ˌhō-mə-ˈfō-bē-ə How to pronounce homophobia (audio)
: irrational fear or dislike of or prejudice against homosexuality or gay people
homophobic adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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