What does "diversity" mean?

1. (variety of things) a range of many different things or ideas. 2. (social inclusion) the practice of including people from different social and ethnic backgrounds and of different genders.

How do you use "diversity"?

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

diversity

US //daɪˈvɝsɪti// UK //daɪvˈɜːsɪti// di·ver·si·ty

1 variety of things (n.)
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.

Example

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

Example

The curriculum was redesigned to reflect a greater diversity of perspectives, moving beyond the traditional focus on Western history.
- uniformity
- sameness
2 social inclusion (n.)
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.

Example

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

Example

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.
- inclusion
- multiculturalism
- exclusion
- homogeneity

Origin

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