View synonyms for double standard

double standard

[ duhb-uhl stan-derd ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

any code or set of principles containing different provisions for one group of people than for another, especially an unwritten code of sexual behavior permitting men more freedom than women. Compare single standard ( def 1 ).
Economics. bimetallism.

double standard

noun

a set of principles that allows greater freedom to one person or group than to another

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Word History and Origins

Origin of double standard¹

First recorded in 1950–55

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Idioms and Phrases

A set of principles establishing different provisions for one group than another; also, specifically, allowing men more sexual freedom than women. For example, She complained that her father had a double standard—her brothers were allowed to date, but she was not, even though she was older . [Mid-1900s]

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

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