inequity

noun

in·​eq·​ui·​ty (ˌ)i-ˈne-kwə-tē How to pronounce inequity (audio)
Synonyms of inequity
1
: injustice, unfairness
social/racial/educational inequity
… rebellion against flagrant inequity in the labor market …—Robert Lekachman
2
: an instance of injustice or unfairness
wage inequities

Synonyms of inequity

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Examples of inequity in a Sentence

the inequities in wages paid to men and women the inequity of the punishment led many people to believe that the defendant was being punished for his political beliefs
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The calls for supernatural aid often consisted of individuals’ attempts to protect themselves and strike back against slave owners under the extreme inequities and traumas of the plantations. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Aug. 2026 The neighborhood just a few miles north of uptown has long felt neglected by the city, some residents say, and the lack of a station would continue a history of inequity. — Dj Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 13 Aug. 2026 These gaps compound existing inequities and contribute to the chronic disease burden that defines so much of modern American life. — Tanya Akim, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 In addition, these newer therapies also underscore additional limitations of our current system, which include inequities in access due in part to the high cost. — Jamie Maguire, STAT, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inequity

Word History

First Known Use

1556, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inequity was in 1556

Rhymes for inequity

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Browse Nearby Words

inequitable
inequity
inequivalve
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inequity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inequity. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inequity

noun
in·​eq·​ui·​ty (ˈ)in-ˈek-wət-ē How to pronounce inequity (audio)
plural inequities
1
: injustice sense 1, unfairness
2
: an instance of injustice or unfairness

Legal Definition

inequity

noun
in·​eq·​ui·​ty in-ˈe-kwə-tē How to pronounce inequity (audio)
plural inequities
: injustice
also : an instance of injustice
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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