What does ableism mean Meaning and Definition
What does ableism mean
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Ableism is a form of discrimination and social injustice against individuals with disabilities, characterized by the attitudes, beliefs, and practices that stigmatize, marginalize, and exclude them from full participation in society.
Examples
- The inaccessible public transportation system exemplifies ableism.
- The lack of wheelchair ramps in the new building is a clear example of ableism.
Synonyms
- Disablism
- Accessibility discrimination
Antonyms
- Inclusivity
- Accessibility
Etymology
The term “ableism” is a neologism, coined in the latter half of the 20th century to describe the discriminatory attitudes and practices towards individuals with disabilities.
Usage Notes
Ableism is often used in academic and advocacy contexts to describe the systemic and social barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. However, it is essential to avoid using the term in a way that implies individuals with disabilities are inherently flawed or defective.
Cultural References
Ableism has been referenced in popular culture through films like “The Shape of Water” and “Code Black,” as well as television shows like “Atypical” and “Love on the Spectrum.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Phrases like “disabled but not doomed” and “nothing about us without us” highlight the importance of centering disabled voices in discussions of ableism and disability rights.
Related Words or Phrases
Related terms include disability,-disable, and accessible. Phrases like “disability visibility” and “disability inclusivity” emphasize the importance of representation and inclusion.
Collocations
Ableism often collocates with words like “discrimination,” “inequality,” and “barriers” to underscore the systemic and social nature of the problem.
Frequency of Use
Ableism is a relatively rare term in modern language, but its usage is increasing as awareness of disability rights and social justice issues grows.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of ableism include “abelism,” “ableistim,” and “abledism.”