favoritism

[ fey-ver-i-tiz-uhm, feyv-ri- ]

noun

1. the favoring of one person or group over others with equal claims; partiality:

   to show favoritism toward the youngest child.

2. the state of being a favorite.

Word History and Origins

Origin of favoritism¹

First recorded in 1755–65; favorite + -ism

Example Sentences

“Is there favoritism being extended to the potential president?” said Virginia Canter, a former government ethics lawyer.

From Salon

“Or religious favoritism. As a judge, and certainly, as a Supreme Court justice, you have that duty. Justice Alito flunks the test and flunks it badly.”

From Salon

For the last several years, the Miss USA organization has struggled with an apparent mental health crisis and allegations of favoritism.

From Salon

Long Beach State setter Aidan Knipe and his father, the team’s coach, have worked to avoid hints of favoritism while pushing to win a national title.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite the separation behind the scenes, outside assumptions of favoritism are unavoidable in many father-son dynamics.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• discrimination
• inequity
• nepotism
• partisanship
• unfairness