prejudice
UK: ˈprɛdʒʊdɪs | US: ˈprɛdʒədɪs
n. 1. A preconceived opinion not based on reason or experience.
n. 2. Harm or injury resulting from judgment or action influenced by such opinions.
vt. 1. To cause someone to have prejudice; to bias.
prejudice = pre<before> + jud<judge> + ice<noun suffix>
- pre<before>: From Latin prae-, meaning "before" or "ahead."
- jud<judge>: From Latin judicium, meaning "judgment" or "decision."
- ice<noun suffix>: A nominalizing suffix in English, often indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word prejudice originates from Old French prejudice, derived from Latin praejudicium ("prior judgment"). It originally referred to a legal decision made before examining evidence, later evolving to denote irrational preconceptions. The morphemes reflect the idea of "judging before" (pre- + jud-), capturing the core concept of bias formed without proper grounds.
His prejudice against foreigners made him reluctant to hire international candidates.
The court ruled that the law was applied without prejudice.
She fought to overcome societal prejudices about women in leadership.
The media coverage prejudiced the jury before the trial began.
Prejudice often stems from ignorance or fear of the unfamiliar.