Bigot Meaning and Definition
Bigot
Pronunciation
/ˈbɪɡɒt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who strongly and unreasonably opposes a particular idea or belief, often showing prejudice or intolerance towards people who hold different views.
Examples
- The bigot refused to attend the debate due to their opposing views on social justice.
- He was labeled a bigot by his peers for making discriminatory remarks about minority groups.
Synonyms
- Bias
- Prejudice
- Hatred
Antonyms
- Tolerant
- Open-minded
- Progressive
Additional Information
A bigot may exhibit behavior that is hostile or aggressive towards those with opposing views, and often dismisses alternative perspectives as wrong or unacceptable. Bigotry can take many forms, including racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia, and can have severe consequences on individuals and society as a whole.
The term “bigot” can be perceived as derogatory and pejorative, and should be used carefully and responsibly to avoid alienating individuals who may be holding prejudices. Efforts to understand and address bigotry require empathy, self-awareness, and a commitment to education and open-mindedness.
Etymology
The word “bigot” is derived from the Old French word “bigot,” which referred to a pagan or an adherent of the Celtic faith in pre-Christian Ireland and Scotland. In modern usage, the term has taken on a distinct connotation, describing someone who adheres rigidly to a particular belief or opinion, often with an intolerance towards opposing views.
Usage Notes
When using the term “bigot,” be aware of its pejorative connotations and avoid applying it as an insult without basis. Be precise and factual in your assessment of someone’s behavior, and try to address the specific issues rather than resorting to personal attacks.
In written and spoken language, consider the audience and context before using the term. Bigotry is a serious issue, and labeling someone a bigot should not be done lightly.
Cultural References
- In J.D. Salinger’s novel “The Catcher in the Rye,” the protagonist Holden Caulfield often accuses others of being phonies, and exhibits signs of bigotry himself, such as dismissing a red-hat tipped waitress.
- In Harper Lee’s novel “To Kill a Mockingbird,” the character Tom Robinson is the victim of prejudice and bigotry in a society divided by racial tension.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “The blind bigot”: describes someone who adheres rigidly to a particular view, even in the face of evidence that contradicts it.
- “To talk down to someone”: to treat someone condescendingly or in a manner that reflects prejudice.
Related Words or Phrases
The term “bigot” is often linked with words that convey similar concepts, such as prejudice, intolerance, bias, and hatred. Some phrases and idioms also come close to the definition, including:
Collocations
- “A fanatical supporter” (comparing an enthusiast or zealous adherent to a bigot).
- “In defense of”: someone acting out of principle and bigoted sentiments (claiming one thing for selfish purposes).
Frequency of Use
The word “bigot” has been a staple of language since the early 16th century and continues to be widely used in everyday discourse, though perhaps with some caveats, depending on cultural background, perspective and particular intent of speech. Most importantly the goal remains at open discourse based around, more focused comprehension within greater communal safety at recognizing people rather of recognizing problems like other obstacles may change names (use within safe free forms communication): However common of each uses from actual dialogue vs full reference works only very marginal statistic: at close -related issues context being. Language changing rate here somewhat accelerated may involve broader cross-social movements evolving perspectives we describe term thus continue embrace now increasing us its global human perception shifting perspective new changes
Common Misspellings
Birot, Begoat, Bygot