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

Despite Trump’s clear favoritism toward Israel and utter disregard for the Palestinians, an exit poll indicated that just 20 percent of Muslim Americans voted for Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday.

From Slate

The parents’ attorneys allege that Ratnesar has a reputation for “unequal and arbitrary treatment of students” and point to, as evidence, several reviews left by former families at the school that discuss alleged favoritism and discriminatory treatment by the head of school.

From Los Angeles Times

It further alleges that Ratnesar has a reputation for “unequal and arbitrary treatment of students” and contains, as evidence, several reviews left by former families at the school that discuss alleged favoritism and discriminatory treatment by the head of school.

From Los Angeles Times

Indeed, even his appointment in June 2020 provoked suspicions about political favoritism — he’s a logistics executive with no postal experience — DeJoy had been a major fundraiser for then-President Trump.

From Los Angeles Times

In an era where people on both the left and right rail against politicians beholden to the rich and powerful, a piece of legislation that only benefits a venue owned by billionaire Clippers owner Steve Ballmer is as rank an example of favoritism as you can find in the annals of Sacramento — and that’s saying something.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• discrimination
• inequity
• nepotism
• partisanship
• unfairness