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 While there is potential for favoritism and strained relationships, Laker noted that bringing a family member on your team also offers more trust and inside knowledge of your industry. Don Yaeger, Forbes, 7 Oct. 2024 Context: German had reported on Telles' office, disclosing bullying, favoritism and a relationship with a staffer. April Rubin, Axios, 16 Oct. 2024 The complaints also included racial microaggressions, penalization for taking medical leave, fear of retaliation for raising concerns, favoritism by executive producers and unexpected terminations. Vivian Kwarm, New York Daily News, 10 July 2024 For all its drawbacks, a period of uncertainty and delay would not be nearly as dangerous as the appearance of favoritism. Bronwyn Bruton, Foreign Affairs, 3 Mar. 2013 See all Example Sentences for favoritism 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'favoritism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1763, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of favoritism was in 1763

Dictionary Entries Near favoritism

Cite this Entry

“Favoritism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/favoritism. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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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