# stereotype

/ˈstɛɹiəˌtaɪp/ (US) · /stˈɛɹɪˌəʊtaɪp/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stereotype
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. a fixed idea about people

noun · CEFR B2

a common but often unfair or oversimplified idea about a group of people.

For teachers: a conventional, formulaic, and often oversimplified conception or image of a person or group.

- The film was criticized for relying on a lazy stereotype of teenagers.
- Sociologists argue that even seemingly positive stereotypes can be harmful because they ignore the vast diversity within any specific cultural group.

### 3. printing plate

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Technical

a metal plate used in old-fashioned printing to make many copies of a page.

For teachers: a metal printing plate cast from a matrix moulded from a raised printing surface.

- The museum displayed the original stereotype used to print the 19th-century newspaper.
- The invention of the stereotype allowed for the mass production of books, as the original type could be reused while the plates did the heavy work.

### 4. to judge by a fixed idea

verb · CEFR B2

to believe that someone has certain qualities just because of the group they belong to.

For teachers: to categorise or characterise an individual or group based on a conventional or oversimplified image.

- It is wrong to stereotype all young people as being lazy or irresponsible.
- The marketing campaign was careful not to stereotype its target audience, opting instead for a diverse range of relatable scenarios.

## Examples

- The movie relies on an old stereotype about grumpy neighbors.
- The advertisement was criticized for using a lazy stereotype of a stay-at-home father.
- Sociologists argue that even seemingly positive stereotypes can be harmful because they place restrictive expectations on individuals based solely on their perceived group identity.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.