stereotype
UK: ˈsteriətaɪp | US: ˈsteriətaɪp
n. a widely held but oversimplified or fixed idea of a person or thing
vt. to categorize or label someone or something based on a stereotype
The word "stereotype" originates from the printing industry in the 18th century. The prefix "stereo-" comes from Greek stereos, meaning "solid" or "fixed," while "type" derives from Greek typos, meaning "impression" or "model." Originally, a "stereotype" referred to a solid printing plate cast from a mold, which produced identical copies. By the mid-19th century, the term evolved metaphorically to describe rigid, unchanging mental impressions of people or groups, reflecting the unyielding nature of the printing plate.
The film challenges racial stereotypes by portraying complex characters.
She refused to stereotype people based on their appearance.
Gender stereotypes often limit opportunities for women in STEM fields.
His lazy writing relied heavily on cultural stereotypes.
Breaking free from stereotypes requires conscious effort and open-mindedness.