The spelling of the word "bigot" is fairly straightforward. It is spelled with a "b" followed by the vowel sound "ɪ" (pronounced as in "it") and then the consonant sound "g" (pronounced as in "go") followed by the vowel sound "ɒ" (pronounced as in "lot"). Finally, the word ends with the consonant sound "t" (pronounced as in "top"). In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "bigot" is spelled as /ˈbɪɡət/.
A bigot refers to an individual who strongly holds and manifests an intolerant, prejudiced, or steadfastly narrow-minded viewpoint or belief, particularly with regard to race, religion, politics, ethnicity, nationality, or any other characteristic which they focus on. The person demonstrates an unwavering and often unreasonable attachment to their own opinion, refusing to consider alternative perspectives or evidence that may challenge or contradict their own preconceived notions. Their bigotry may stem from deep-seated biases or stereotypes that are reinforced by their upbringing, social environment, or personal experiences.
Typically, bigots display a pronounced disdain, hostility, or aggression towards individuals or groups who differ from them in terms of their beliefs, practices, or background. Their prejudiced attitudes often manifest through discriminatory behaviors or derogatory language, seeking to marginalize or oppress those they perceive to be different.
The term "bigot" carries a negative connotation, highlighting the damaging impact of their rigid and closed-minded ideologies on social harmony, multiculturalism, and equal rights. It is associated with the suppression of diversity, fostering an environment of exclusion and misunderstanding. Bigotry is widely condemned in contemporary society, as it contradicts principles of fairness, empathy, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their various traits, backgrounds, or opinions.
One who is obstinately and blindly attached to a particular religious belief, to a party, or to an opinion; a blind zealot.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "bigot" originated in the 16th century and its etymology is not completely certain. It is believed to have been derived from the Middle French word "bigot", meaning "sanctimonious person" or "religious hypocrite". However, the origins of the French word itself are unclear. Some theories suggest it may have come from the Germanic languages, specifically the Old High German word "biotan" or "bigan", meaning "to live in fear" or "to harbor hostility". Another possibility is that it could have derived from the Old English word "bygod", meaning "a deity" or "god". Despite the uncertainty around its exact origins, "bigot" has come to refer to a person who holds intolerant or prejudiced views towards others, particularly due to their race, religion, or beliefs.