homophobia

noun

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

Examples of homophobia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Right-wingers have used Clark not only to race-bait but to stir homophobia. Karen Attiah, Washington Post, 21 June 2024 Aaaaand, of course, the celebration has already been cut short thanks to a frustrating mix of homophobia, misogynoir, and book purists. Aja Romano, Vox, 18 June 2024 In a deeply religious and conservative Nigeria, where LGBTQ people suffer extremely high levels of homophobia, intolerance, and even violence, Lagos Fashion Week quickly established itself as an inclusive space for marginalized communities and unconventional brands to be seen and heard. Bolaji Akinwande, CNN, 13 June 2024 The film follows the titular character, a Black teen from the coast of Brazill and his journey to overcome poverty, grief following his mother’s death and homophobia. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 13 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for homophobia 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'homophobia.' 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

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of homophobia was in 1964

Dictionary Entries Near homophobia

Cite this Entry

“Homophobia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/homophobia. Accessed 2 Jul. 2024.

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

Medical Definition

homophobia

noun
ho·​mo·​pho·​bia ˌhō-mə-ˈfō-bē-ə How to pronounce homophobia (audio)
: irrational fear of, aversion to, or discrimination against homosexuality or gay people
homophobe noun
homophobic adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!