noun / verb
stereotype
STAIR-ee-uh-type/ˈsteriətaɪp/
A fixed, oversimplified representation of a type of person or thing.
The woman's skilled laptop repair contradicts the age-based stereotype in the observer's mind.
Etymology
The “solid impression” was a printing plate that reproduced a page unchanged. This became an image perpetuated without change, then a fixed, oversimplified idea about a person or group.
In context
a stereotype is a widely held but really oversimplified idea of a particular group.
More examples
- Her adventurous grandfather defies stereotypes about older people.
- People often stereotype teenagers as irresponsible.
- The ad portrays a small town through familiar stereotypes.
Forms
stereotype · stereotypes · stereotyped · stereotyping
stereotypical adjective — Reflecting a fixed, oversimplified image or idea.
Similar words
- generalization
- A broad statement that need not be fixed or oversimplified.
- cliché
- An overused expression or idea, not necessarily about a group.