marginalized
UK: ˈmɑːdʒɪnəlaɪzd | US: ˈmɑːrdʒɪnəlaɪzd
adj. treated as insignificant or peripheral
vt. (past tense) pushed to the edge of a group or society, limiting access to resources or opportunities
The word traces back to Latin margo (edge, border), which evolved into marginem in Late Latin and later marge in Old French. The suffix -al (relating to) turns "margin" into an adjective, while -ize (verb-forming suffix, from Greek -izein) gives it an action-oriented meaning. The addition of -ed marks it as a past participle, indicating a completed action. Historically, "marginalized" emerged in the 20th century to describe systemic exclusion, reflecting societal shifts toward recognizing structural inequities.
Marginalized communities often lack access to quality healthcare.
The policy further marginalized low-income families.
Her voice was marginalized in the male-dominated industry.
Indigenous languages risk being marginalized by globalized media.
The report highlights how disabled individuals are systematically marginalized.