Untouchability - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Untouchability is the practice of excluding certain groups from social interaction, often based on caste or status. It involves denying basic rights and dignity, treating individuals as inferior or unclean.
Definition:
The practice of ostracizing a group as ritually impure or socially inferior.
Synonyms:
exclusion, segregation, discrimination, pariahdom
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
inclusion, equality, acceptance
Common Collocations:
social untouchability, caste untouchability, abolish untouchability, practice untouchability
Derivatives:
untouchable, untouchables
Usage Tips:
Use "untouchability" to describe systemic social exclusion, often linked to caste systems or discrimination.
Common Phrases:
practice of untouchability, abolish untouchability, fight against untouchability
Etymology:
Derived from "untouchable," from Latin "tangere" (to touch) with negative prefix "un-," implying prohibition or impurity.
Examples:
- 1. The caste system enforces untouchability in some societies.
- 2. Untouchability violates basic human rights and dignity.
- 3. Laws in India prohibit the practice of untouchability.
- 4. Gandhi fought against untouchability to promote equality.