Meaning & use

stigma

noun·Academic

A mark of social disgrace or disapproval that is strongly associated with a particular circumstance or trait.

See it in a sentence

Mental illness still carries a stigma that keeps many people from seeking help.

The organization runs campaigns to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction and recovery.

A note on using this word

Stigma is often paired with the verb 'attach' or 'carry' (a stigma attached to something) and describes a social rather than legal judgment.

Words with a similar meaning

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Words with an opposite meaning

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