intersectionality

American

[in-ter-sek-shuh-nal-i-tee] / ˌɪn tərˌsɛk ʃəˈnæl ɪ ti /

noun

Also called intersectional theory. Also called intersectionality theory;. the theory that the overlap of various social identities, as race, gender, sexuality, and class, contributes to the specific type of systemic oppression and discrimination experienced by an individual (often used attributively).

Her paper uses a queer intersectionality approach.
the oppression and discrimination resulting from the overlap of an individual’s various social identities.

the intersectionality experienced by Black women.

Etymology

Origin of intersectionality

Coined in 1989 by U.S. legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw (born 1959); intersectional ( def. ) + -ity ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Newly released books reflect current concerns, and so it is no surprise that February’s choices include titles about intersectionality, protest and politics as our country faces tough questions about civil rights.

From Los Angeles Times

Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw has been rightly known until now for her immense scholarly work, establishing terms like “intersectionality” and “critical race theory” that now have grown into entire fields of study.

From Los Angeles Times

To be most effective and cut through the noise, the climate movement needs intersectionality.

From Salon

Pop culture became increasingly enmeshed in questions of identity, intersectionality, racial justice, gender and queerness.

From Salon

He has continued Dr. King’s legacy in building such a coalition that address the intersectionality of systemic racism, poverty, environmental degradation and religious nationalism.

From Salon

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023