Definition

A person who is rejected or despised by society and is often treated as an outcast.

Example

After the scandal, he became a pariah in his community, shunned by everyone he once knew.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new kid at school?

Yeah, I heard he's kind of a pariah among the other students.

That's really sad; everyone deserves a chance to fit in.

I agree, maybe we should invite him to hang out with us.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pariah originates from the Tamil word 'paraiyar', which refers to a member of a low caste in southern India, historically marginalized and considered untouchable. The term has evolved in English to describe someone who is an outcast or rejected by society.

Memory Tip

Think of the original meaning of 'pariah' as someone from a marginalized group in society, which helps you remember that a pariah is someone who is rejected or cast out.

Visually Confused Words