Definition of "discrimination" in English

noun

1. (uncountable, countable) Discernment, the act of discriminating, discerning, distinguishing, noting or perceiving differences between things, with the intent to understand rightly and make correct decisions.

2. (uncountable, countable, sometimes with "against") Differential treatment of an individual or group to their disadvantage; treatment or consideration based on class or category rather than individual merit; partiality; prejudice; bigotry.

   • sexual or racial discrimination
   • reverse discrimination
   • The state, in the exercise of its general power to prescribe rules of evidence, may provide that proof of a particular fact, or of several facts taken collectively, shall be prima facie evidence of another fact when there is some rational connection between the fact proved and the ultimate fact presumed. The legislative presumption is invalid when it is entirely arbitrary, or creates an invidious discrimination, or operates to deprive a party of a reasonable opportunity to present the pertinent facts in his defense.

3. (uncountable) The quality of being discriminating; acute discernment, especially in matters of good taste.

   • Near-synonym: tastefulness

4. (countable, obsolete) That which discriminates; a distinguishing mark, a characteristic.