intersectionality
noun
in·ter·sec·tion·al·i·ty
ˌin-tər-ˌsek-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 
: the complex, cumulative way in which the effects of multiple forms of discrimination (such as racism, sexism, and classism) combine, overlap, or intersect especially in the experiences of marginalized individuals or groups
[Kimberlé] Crenshaw introduced the theory of intersectionality, the idea that when it comes to thinking about how inequalities persist, categories like gender, race, and class are best understood as overlapping and mutually constitutive rather than isolated and distinct.—
Adia Harvey Wingfield
Adia Harvey WingfieldExamples of intersectionality in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
At its core, intersectionality refers to the ways that different aspects of a person’s identity can expose them to overlapping forms of discrimination and marginalisation.
—Elfy Scott, refinery29.com, 11 Mar. 2024
Recognizing the intersectionality of diverse identities also helps leaders appreciate that these complexities not only deserve space to be expressed but can also enhance business outcomes.
—Esmt Berlin, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024
Why is intersectionality so important to discussing disability? How to prioritize hiring from the disability community across business units within the entertainment industry, both in front of and behind the camera.
—Andrés Buenahora, Variety, 30 Sep. 2024
In addition to black and white photos of his family members, images by Gordon Parks, an African American artist whose work highlights the intersectionality of race and class in America, adorn the walls.
—Bahar Anooshahr, The Arizona Republic, 18 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intersectionality 
Elfy Scott, refinery29.com, 11 Mar. 2024
Recognizing the intersectionality of diverse identities also helps leaders appreciate that these complexities not only deserve space to be expressed but can also enhance business outcomes.
—Esmt Berlin, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024
Why is intersectionality so important to discussing disability? How to prioritize hiring from the disability community across business units within the entertainment industry, both in front of and behind the camera.
—Andrés Buenahora, Variety, 30 Sep. 2024
In addition to black and white photos of his family members, images by Gordon Parks, an African American artist whose work highlights the intersectionality of race and class in America, adorn the walls.
—Bahar Anooshahr, The Arizona Republic, 18 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intersectionality
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'intersectionality.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near intersectionality
Cite this Entry
“Intersectionality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intersectionality. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.
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