racist

SayRAY-sistUS · UK/ˈɹeɪ.sɪst/AUS/ˈɹæɪ.sɪst/

Noun pluralracists

3 meanings of racist

1
adjective
Based on, showing, or promoting the belief that one race is superior to others, or otherwise relating to racism.
The policy was widely condemned as racist and quickly withdrawn.
She challenged the racist assumptions underlying the hiring process.
Similardiscriminatory, prejudiced, bigoted
Oppositeantiracist, egalitarian, unprejudiced
2
nouncountable
A believer in or supporter of racism, including anyone who considers one race superior to others or discriminates against people of other races.
The committee refused to let a known racist address the assembly.
History remembers him as an unrepentant racist who defended segregation.
Similarbigot, racialist
3
adjectivenonstandard
Discriminatory; treating one group of people less favorably than another, used loosely of unfair treatment not necessarily tied to race.
Fans complained that the new ticket pricing felt downright racist toward students.
She called the dress code racist for singling out one team.
Similardiscriminatory, unfair, biased, prejudiced
Oppositefair, equitable, impartial

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Origin

First recorded as a noun in 1932 and an adjective in 1938, 'racist' was formed from 'racism' (1928) with the suffix '-ist', paralleling the French 'raciste' (1892). It replaced the older term 'racialist' (1910).