disparity

[ dih-spar-i-tee ]

noun

, plural dis·par·i·ties.

1. lack of similarity or equality; inequality; difference:

   a disparity in age; disparity in rank.

disparity

/ dɪˈspærɪtɪ /

noun

1. inequality or difference, as in age, rank, wages, etc
2. dissimilarity

Usage

See discrepancy

Other Words From

• nondis·pari·ty noun plural nondisparities

Word History and Origins

Origin of disparity¹

First recorded in 1545–55; from Middle French desparite, from Late Latin disparitās; equivalent to dis- ¹ + parity ¹

Synonym Study

See difference.

Example Sentences

Health researchers have faulted numerous factors for that disparity, including inequities in healthcare, chronic conditions and structural racism.

From Los Angeles Times

The researchers also observed several racial, economic, and age-related disparities among the patients who used emergency care multiple times during their pregnancy.

From Science Daily

According to the study authors, the findings add to evidence that such technology could help to reliably address diagnostic and treatment disparities for lower-income populations with limited access to dermatologists.

From Science Daily

Recent efforts to address health disparities have run headlong into racist policies still entrenched in health systems.

From Salon

A poll of city voters conducted in the spring by the Los Angeles Business Council Institute in partnership with The Times saw similar disparities between homeowners and renters.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• difference
• discrepancy
• distinction
• divergence
• gap
• imbalance
• inequality
• variation