Prettyism, spelled /ˈprɪti.ɪzəm/, is a relatively new term that refers to the belief in the importance of physical attractiveness above other qualities. It is made up of the word "pretty" and the suffix "-ism," which denotes a distinctive doctrine or system of beliefs. The correct spelling of Prettyism reflects its pronunciation, with stress on the first syllable and the phonemes /r/ and /t/ in the middle. This term has gained popularity in recent years, as the issue of beauty standards and body positivity continues to gain attention.
Prettyism refers to the practice or belief in valuing and favoring individuals who possess conventional or traditional ideas of physical attractiveness or beauty. It is a term derived from the word "pretty" and has been used to describe a societal bias or preference towards those who conform to certain aesthetic standards. This concept often encompasses the tendency to judge individuals predominantly based on their physical appearance rather than their character, skills, or abilities.
Prettyism can manifest in various settings, such as workplaces, social circles, or even in personal relationships. It can perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce oppressive beauty standards, leading to unfair advantages or disadvantages for individuals based solely on their appearance. This form of discrimination can have detrimental effects on the self-esteem and confidence of those not seen as conventionally attractive, potentially leading to feelings of exclusion, worthlessness, or inadequacy.
Prettyism often intersects with other forms of discrimination, such as sexism, ageism, or ableism, as certain groups of individuals may face additional obstacles and biases due to their perceived beauty or lack thereof. It is important for a society to recognize and challenge prettyism in order to promote inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunities regardless of physical appearance. By valuing and appreciating individuals for their talents, achievements, and unique qualities rather than narrowly focusing on external looks, society can aspire towards a more equitable and inclusive environment.
The word "Prettyism" is a compound word formed from the combination of "pretty" and the suffix "-ism".
The term "pretty" originated from the Middle English word "pretti", which meant "cunning" or "clever". It derived from the Old English word "prættig", signifying "cunning" or "crafty". Over time, "pretty" began to emphasize qualities of aesthetic attractiveness, elegance, or charm.
The suffix "-ism" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "-ismos", which denotes a specific doctrine, belief system, practice, or ideology.
Therefore, the etymology of the word "Prettyism" can be understood as a combination of the word "pretty", representing beauty or attractiveness, and the suffix "-ism", indicating a specific belief system or ideology related to the concept of prettiness.