stigmatize

Definition

To characterize as disgraceful or ignominious; to mark with a stigma or stigmata.

Etymology

From Medieval Latin stigmatizo (“to brand”), from Ancient Greek στιγματίζω (stigmatízō, “to mark”), from στίγμα (stígma).

Example Sentences

• "We stigmatize the Indians, also, as cowardly and treacherous, because they use stratagem in warfare in preference to open force; but in this they are fully justified by their rude code of honor."
• "Helen Hardacre, in her study of discourses stigmatizing women who have had abortions, argues that there has been a marked rise in media interest in women's sexuality since the 1970s."
• "This chapter examines the social determinants of depression in black men because no other race-by-gender population group has been stigmatized as much as black men."