English Reference
noun

diversity

n.
US /daɪˈvɝsɪti/ UK /daɪvˈɜːsɪti/ di·ver·si·ty UK spelling diversities

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a range of many different things or ideas.

    the state or quality of being different or varied; a range of diverse elements within a single category.

    Simple

    The island is famous for the diversity of its plants and animals.

    In context

    The curriculum was redesigned to reflect a greater diversity of perspectives, moving beyond the traditional focus on Western history.

    uniformitysameness
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the practice of including people from different social and ethnic backgrounds and of different genders.

    the inclusion of individuals representing different genders, ethnicities, and social backgrounds within an organisation or community.

    Simple

    The company is working hard to improve diversity in its management team.

    In context

    Corporate diversity initiatives are often evaluated based on their ability to foster an inclusive environment for minority employees.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'diversity and inclusion' in professional contexts.

    inclusionmulticulturalism
    exclusionhomogeneity

Usage diversity equity · cultural diversity · diversity reflect

A small but steady decline in social housing in these areas leaves many fearing that the city’s diversity is under threat.

The Guardian· 16 Aug 2026

At the Becky Mayer Centre for Phage Research at the University of Leicester, much of our work starts with the enormous diversity of phages found in nature.

Phys.org· 16 Aug 2026

From Middle English diversite, from Old French diversité, from Latin dīversitās, equivalent to diverse + -ity. Displaced native Old English mislīcnes.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old French diversité
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated