equality
UK: ɪˈkwɒləti | US: ɪˈkwɑːləti
n. the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities
n. (mathematics) a symbolic assertion that two expressions are identical in value
The word "equality" traces back to the Latin aequalis (meaning "even" or "uniform"), derived from aequus ("level" or "fair"). The suffix -ity (from Latin -itas) was added in Middle English to form abstract nouns indicating a state or quality. The morpheme "equal" preserves the core idea of balance, while "-ity" transforms it into a concept of condition or principle. This reflects the word's evolution from a concrete notion of sameness to an abstract ideal of fairness in social and mathematical contexts.
The constitution guarantees equality before the law for all citizens.
Gender equality remains a key goal in modern workplaces.
The equation asserts the equality of the two expressions.
Activists fought for racial equality during the civil rights movement.
True equality requires both legal protection and cultural change.