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

The double standards are still there throughout society. —Meredith Blake, Los Angeles Times, 5 Dec. 2024

Many have also defended Biden, and some have even insisted there's a double standard in how people are judging his versus Trump's morality. —Brittney Melton, NPR, 3 Dec. 2024

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

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