Definition

Relating to a widely held but oversimplified idea or image of a particular type of person or thing.

Example

The movie relied on stereotypic characters that did not reflect the diversity of real life.

Conversation

I saw this movie that had a really stereotypic portrayal of its characters.

Oh no, those can be so frustrating to watch!

Right? It felt like they just relied on old clichés.

Exactly, it would be great to see more unique characters instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stereotypic → It is formed from "stereo-" (from Greek "stereos", meaning solid or three-dimensional) and "typic" (from Greek "typos", meaning model or impression). The word "stereotypic" refers to something that is characterized by a fixed or conventional model, often lacking in originality.

Memory Tip

Think of 'solid' ('stereo-') models or impressions ('typic') that don't change — that's why stereotypic describes something that follows a fixed pattern.

Visually Confused Words