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Definition of favoritism

favoritism

/ˈfeɪ.vɚ.əˌtɪz.əm/
(UK: favouritism)
fa · vor · it · ism
Adjective:favorite
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favoritism Lexical Profile

favoritism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

American The practice of giving unfair preferential treatment to one person or group at the expense of another.

Example

"The manager was accused of showing favoritism when she promoted her close friend over more experienced candidates."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for favoritism
Antonyms
View all antonyms for favoritism

Word Nuance & Usage

Spelled "favouritism" in British, Canadian, and Australian English. Unlike "nepotism," which specifically refers to favoring family members or close friends in professional appointments, "favoritism" applies broadly to any unfair preferential treatment.

• Nearby Words

favorableness
favorably
favorite
favoritism
fawkes
fawn
fawner

Word Origin & Etymology

Attested from the mid-18th century, derived from French "favoritisme," from "favori" (favorite), ultimately tracing back to Latin "favere" meaning "to show kindness to" or "to support."

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Favoritism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/favoritism
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