rape culture

[ reyp kuhl-cher ]

noun

1. a subset of values, beliefs, and behaviors in a society that trivializes or normalizes sexual violence, including rape:

   Slut-shaming is one manifestation of rape culture.

Word History and Origins

Origin of rape culture¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

But my silence was not only wrong; I am complicit on some level in nurturing the “rape culture” that we see today in our country.

From The Daily Beast

This is what perpetuates a systemic, institutionalized rape culture.

From The Daily Beast

The song has been accused of reinforcing rape culture and the undermining of women.

From The Daily Beast

He did it in “Pamela 1” (i.e., the one in which he explored rape culture and the “nice guy” mentality).

From The Daily Beast

In each case, the reason has been the same: the belief that the song “excuses rape culture” and “is unacceptable.”

From The Daily Beast