Fattism

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Prejudice manifested in discrimination against individuals due to their size or weight is known as a social attitude that conveys negativity towards those who are heavier or larger
2. A form of bias characterized by negative perceptions and treatment of people based on their body mass rather than their abilities or character
3. A societal bias that leads to discrimination against individuals for their weight or size, promoting stereotypes and negative attitudes towards those who are heavier

Etymology: The term "fattism" is a relatively modern coinage, referring to discrimination or prejudice against individuals based on their body weight or size. It is derived from the word "fat," which has been used in English since at least the 14th century to describe someone who is overweight or corpulent. The suffix "-ism" is often used to denote a practice, system, or ideology, suggesting that "fattism" encapsulates a broader societal issue related to body image and stigmatization. The word emerged in the late 20th century as awareness of body positivity and size acceptance began to rise. Its usage reflects a growing recognition of the discrimination faced by people with larger bodies, paralleling other terms like "racism" and "sexism." The coining of "fattism" coincided with movements advocating for social justice and inclusion, where discussions about body diversity became increasingly prominent. While the term itself may not have a deeply rooted history, it resonates with the ongoing conversations about societal standards of beauty and the impact of these standards on individuals' mental and physical health. The suffix "-ism" indicates that this is not merely a personal bias but a systemic issue, embedded in cultural norms and behaviors. Thus, "fattism" exists within a framework of societal critique, encouraging discussions about acceptance and challenging stereotypes related to weight and size.

Synonyms: fatphobia, weight bias