WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026
rac•ism /ˈreɪsɪzəm/USA pronunciation
n. [uncountable]
WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026- Sociologya belief or doctrine that one's own race is superior.
- Sociologyhatred or intolerance of another race or other races.
rac•ism
(rā′siz əm),USA pronunciation n.
rac′ist, n., adj.
- Sociologya belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule others.
- Sociologya policy, system of government, etc., based upon or fostering such a doctrine;
discrimination. - Sociologyhatred or intolerance of another race or other races.
- French racisme. See race2, -ism
- 1865–70