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

Now, at 49, the actress has developed thick skin and isn't afraid to push back in the face of an unfair double standard. —Shania Russell, EW.com, 2 Dec. 2024

The Mobile Vendor Plaza Program was proposed earlier this year as a way to balance the needs of street vendors with those of brick-and-mortar business owners that were frustrated by the double standard under which some vendors were operating. —Sierra Lopez, The Mercury News, 26 Oct. 2024

Some Trump supporters are calling the muted reaction generated by the Lopez jokes compared to the outrage ignited by the Hinchliffe comments a double standard. —Daniel Gonzalez, The Arizona Republic, 31 Oct. 2024

She’s become well-versed in the music industry’s double standards. —Brittany Spanos, Rolling Stone, 15 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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