discriminatory
UK: dɪˈskrɪmɪnətəri | US: dɪˈskrɪmɪnətɔːri
adj. showing unfair or prejudicial treatment based on categories like race, gender, or age
adj. capable of recognizing subtle differences or distinctions
discriminatory = discriminate<distinguish> + ory<adjective suffix>
- discriminate (from Latin discriminare, "to divide or distinguish," from discrimen "distinction")
- dis- (apart) + cernere (to separate, decide).
- Evolved to mean "perceive differences" (neutral) and later "treat unfairly" (pejorative).
- -ory (adjective-forming suffix, from Latin -orius, indicating "relating to or characterized by").
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin discriminare, rooted in the idea of "separating or dividing." Over time, discriminate shifted from neutral "distinguishing" to its modern dual meaning: (1) recognizing nuances and (2) unjust bias. The suffix -ory solidifies its adjectival form, emphasizing a trait of division—whether analytical (neutral) or prejudiced (negative).
The law prohibits discriminatory practices in hiring.
Her discriminatory taste in art made her a respected critic.
The algorithm was accused of being racially discriminatory.
Birds have highly discriminatory vision to spot predators.
Policies must avoid discriminatory effects on marginalized groups.