Stigma
/ˈstɪg.mə/noun
A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.
Did you know?In ancient Greece, stigmas were used in rituals to mark slaves and criminals, creating a lasting association with shame and exclusion.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*steg-
“to cover or conceal”
Ancient Greek
Greek
στίγμα (stígma)
“a mark made by a pointed instrument; a brand”
Latin
Latin
stigma
“a mark or sign, particularly one of disgrace or infamy”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
stigma
“a mark of disgrace or shame”
16th Century
English
stigma
“a mark of infamy, or a sign of disgrace in social contexts”
Explore more surprising origins