How Do You Spell FACEISM?

Pronunciation: [fˈe͡ɪsɪzəm] (IPA)

The word "faceism," which refers to discrimination based on facial appearance, is spelled with the letter "c" instead of "s" to indicate the pronunciation of the hard "c" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /ˈfeɪsɪzəm/, with stress on the first syllable (feɪs) and a final schwa sound (əm). The combination of the "ae" diphthong and the "s" sound is represented by "s" and "z" respectively, while the final "m" is added for grammatical purposes.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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FACEISM Meaning and Definition

  1. Faceism is a term that refers to a form of discrimination or bias based on physical appearance, particularly with regards to someone's facial features. It is a concept rooted in social psychology, wherein individuals are judged or treated differently based on their attractiveness or non-attractiveness. Often associated with stereotypes and societal ideals of beauty, faceism can manifest in various social contexts, such as the workplace, media, or interpersonal relationships.

    At its core, faceism denotes the notion that individuals with more conventionally attractive facial features are more likely to receive preferential treatment, opportunities, or positive evaluations compared to those deemed less attractive. This bias can result in numerous negative consequences for disadvantaged individuals, including reduced self-esteem, discrimination in employment or promotion, and limited social or romantic opportunities.

    The term "faceism" serves as a catalyst for discussions surrounding appearance-based discrimination, highlighting the need for awareness and efforts to mitigate its effects. While physical attractiveness is subjective, faceism underscores the importance of recognizing and challenging societal beauty standards and biases. Promoting inclusivity, emphasizing qualities beyond physical appearance, and valuing diversity are crucial in combating faceism and creating a more equitable and inclusive society.

Etymology of FACEISM

The term "faceism" is a blend of two words: "face" and "ism".

1. "Face": This word originates from the Latin word "facies" which means "appearance" or "form". It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to the front part of the head containing the eyes, nose, and mouth, as well as the expression conveyed by these features. In a broader sense, it can also denote the overall appearance or countenance of a person.

2. "Ism": "Ism" is a suffix derived from the Greek suffix "-ismos" which is often added to the end of words to signify a principle, theory, practice, or belief system. It is commonly used to create nouns referring to ideologies or systems of thought. Some well-known examples include "capitalism", "feminism", or "racism".