homophobia

noun

ho·​mo·​pho·​bia ˌhō-mə-ˈfō-bē-ə How to pronounce homophobia (audio)
: discrimination against, aversion to, or fear of homosexuality or gay people compare transphobia
homophobic
ˌhō-mə-ˈfō-bik How to pronounce homophobia (audio)
adjective

Examples of homophobia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
A lot of it came from internalized homophobia and his own repression. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 16 June 2026 But The Bell Jar is also fraught with the monstrousness of white supremacy and homophobia. — Literary Hub, 1 July 2026 Holý and producer Alžběta Janáčková wanted to tackle homophobia but not in a dark, depressing way. — Carole Horst, Variety, 4 July 2026 Photos of Haaland on the tarmac posted to social media were riddled with homophobia and comments questioning the striker’s masculinity. — Teddy Brown, CNN Money, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for homophobia

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of homophobia was in 1964

Rhymes for homophobia

See All Rhymes for homophobia

Browse Nearby Words

homophobe
homophobia
homophone
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Homophobia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/homophobia. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

homophobia

noun
ho·​mo·​pho·​bia ˌhō-mə-ˈfō-bē-ə How to pronounce homophobia (audio)
: irrational fear or dislike of or prejudice against homosexuality or gay people
homophobic
-ˈfō-bik How to pronounce homophobia (audio)
adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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