intersectional

[ in-ter-sek-shuh-nl ]

adjective

1. of or relating to to an intersection, or a place where two or more roads, lines, or elements meet:

   intersectional traffic flow.

2. noting or relating to intersectionality, the theory that the overlap of social identities contributes to the specific type of oppression and discrimination experienced by an individual:

   Intersectional feminism raises the profile of underrepresented minority women and addresses many diverse challenges to gender equality.

Word History and Origins

Origin of intersectional¹

First recorded in 1845–50; intersection ( def ) + -al ¹( def )

Example Sentences

With their uniquely intersectional identities and deep understanding of inequality, queer people also have for generations been at the forefront of American social justice movements.

From Los Angeles Times

Now, more than ever, we need to listen to courageous intersectional martyrs.

From Los Angeles Times

Scientists have designed an intersectional technique for precisely targeting subpopulations of cells and parsing out specific functions.

From Science Daily

Mu’s next season will be an intersectional season of the Asian American community and another marginalized community, and I want to bring that kind of thinking to East West Players.

From Los Angeles Times

“As an environmentalist, we pride ourselves on viewing the world through intersectional lenses,” said Katie Rueff, a first-year student at Cornell University.

From New York Times