Minority Meaning and Definition
Minority
Pronunciation
/mɪˈnɔrɪti/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A group of people who differ from the majority of a society in terms of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, language, or other characteristics.
Examples
- The minority group was often marginalized and underrepresented in society.
- The company took steps to increase diversity and representation among its minority workforce.
Synonyms
- Group
- Racial group
Antonyms
- Majority
- Population
Etymology
The word “minority” comes from the Latin words “minus” meaning “small” and “major” meaning “greater”.
Usage Notes
When referring to a minority group, it’s important to use the correct terminology and avoid stereotypes or offensive language.
Cultural References
Minority has been referenced in popular culture, such as in movies and TV shows, to describe groups of people who are underrepresented or marginalized.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Examples of idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “minority” include “in the minority” or “a minority voice”.
Related Words or Phrases
- Racism
- Diversity
- Representation
Collocations
- Group rights
- Minority interests
Frequency of Use
The word “minority” is commonly used in discussions of social justice, politics, and human rights.
Common Misspellings
- Minortiy
- Minorti