stigma

The definition of a stigma is something that takes away from one’s character or reputation.

(noun)

An example of a stigma is an actor not getting work because of past drinking problems.

Stigma is defined as a mark on a plant or animal.

(noun)

An example of a stigma is the spot on an otherwise blemish-free potato.

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See stigma in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun pl. stigmas, stigmata

  1. Archaic a distinguishing mark burned or cut into the flesh, as of a slave or criminal
  2. something that detracts from the character or reputation of a person, group, etc.; mark of disgrace or reproach
  3. a mark, sign, etc. indicating that something is not considered normal or standard
  4. a small mark, scar, opening, etc. on the surface of a plant or animal, as a pore or eyespot, etc.
    1. a spot on the skin, esp. one that bleeds as the result of certain nervous tensions
    2. marks resembling the crucifixion wounds of Jesus, appearing on some devout persons in a state of intense religious fervor
  5. Bot. the free upper tip of the style of a flower, on which pollen falls and develops
  6. Med. any sign characteristic of a specific disease
  7. Zool. spiracle (sense )

Origin: L < Gr, lit., a prick with a pointed instrument < stizein, to prick: for IE base see stick

Related Forms:

See stigma in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. stig·ma·ta (stĭg-mäˈtə, -mătˈə, stĭgˈmə-) or stig·mas
  1. A mark or token of infamy, disgrace, or reproach: “Party affiliation has never been more casual . . . The stigmata of decay are everywhere” (Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr.) See Synonyms at stain.
  2. A small mark; a scar or birthmark.
  3. Medicine A mark or characteristic indicative of a history of a disease or abnormality.
  4. Psychology A mark or spot on the skin that bleeds as a symptom of hysteria.
  5. stigmata Bodily marks, sores, or sensations of pain corresponding in location to the crucifixion wounds of Jesus, usually occurring during states of religious ecstasy or hysteria.
  6. Biology A small mark, spot, or pore, such as the respiratory spiracle of an insect or an eyespot in certain algae.
  7. Botany The receptive apex of the pistil of a flower, on which pollen is deposited at pollination.
  8. Archaic A mark burned into the skin of a criminal or slave; a brand.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English stigme, brand

Origin: , from Latin stigma, stigmat-, tattoo indicating slave or criminal status

Origin: , from Greek, tattoo mark

Origin: , from stizein, stig-, to prick; see steig- in Indo-European roots

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Related Forms:

  • stigˈmal adjective

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