Apartheid

usgb/əˈpɑːrtaɪt,əˈpɑːrteɪt/
noun

A policy or system of segregation or discrimination on grounds of race, especially in South Africa from 1948 to 1994.

Apartheid was a dark period in South Africa's history that led to division and conflict.
Visual representation of "apartheid" - A policy or system of segregation or discrimination on grounds of race, especially in South Africa from 1948 to 1994.

Often appears as...

  • end of apartheid
  • apartheid era

Usage tips

Disapproving

Historical

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Visual representation of "apartheid"
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South African Origin

Apartheid specifically refers to South Africa's legalized racial segregation from 1948 to 1994.

Illustration for South African Origin
The biography discusses Nelson Mandela's opposition to apartheid.
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Historically Weighted

The term carries heavy historical weight and connotations of oppression and injustice.

Illustration for Historically Weighted
History classes often tackle the issue of apartheid in depth.
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Cultural Sensitivity

Use with care, considering its association with human rights violations and suffering.

Illustration for Cultural Sensitivity
The museum exhibit about apartheid evoked strong emotions.
Word comparison image

Compare with

discriminatedistinctiondivisionexclusionprejudiceracismsegregateseparate
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Visual representation of the word "Apartheid"

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