otherness

[ uhth-er-nis ]

noun

1. the state or fact of being different or distinct.
2. the quality or state of being perceived or treated as different, foreign, strange, etc.:

   Certain ethnic groups embrace their otherness.

ˈotherness

/ ˈʌðənɪs /

noun

1. the quality of being different or distinct in appearance, character, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of otherness¹

First recorded in 1580–90; other + -ness

Example Sentences

In 2008, Trump and others weaponized Barack Obama’s otherness against him, using the young Illinois senator’s background to sow doubt about his character, faith and citizenship status.

From Los Angeles Times

As a result, it delves into race and the otherness experienced by a girl who was longing to belong.

From Los Angeles Times

People who are menstruating are often operating in settings that weren’t designed for it, which creates a sense of “otherness” that also contributes to stigma.

From Salon

López weaves cultural details throughout the story without stepping outside the momentum to manufacture a sense of place and “otherness.”

From Salon

Because I break bread with and claim to be part of this marked construct, this otherness, complete with jail time within the carceral state, allow me to enlighten you.

From Salon

Related Words

• characteristic
• contrast
• difference
• differentiation
• discrepancy
• discrimination
• divergence
• division
• judgment
• nicety
• perception
• quality
• sensitivity
• separation