otherness

noun

oth·​er·​ness ˈə-t͟hər-nəs How to pronounce otherness (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being other or different
2
: something that is other or different

Examples of otherness in a Sentence

As an American growing up in Africa, I always felt a sense of otherness. the otherness of their small religious community
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.
Often traveling far from her neighborhood to play with orchestras, she was reminded of her distinct otherness at each rehearsal. Pauleanna Reid, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025 In the process, those kids, sidelined in a world of indifferent adults, have their otherness lifted, too. Steven Zeitchik, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Sep. 2019 As an immigrant teen trying to assimilate when his family moved to New York, Stan badly wanted to fit in, but was deeply conscious of his ‘otherness’. Antonia Blyth, Deadline, 6 Jan. 2025 It’s also suggested that the lack of safe spaces outside of work (where for many minorities racial and social inequalities are most felt) and home have contributed to feelings of isolation and otherness amongst young Black people. L'oréal Blackett, refinery29.com, 2 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for otherness

Word History

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of otherness was in 1587

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Cite this Entry

“Otherness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/otherness. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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