Whitesplain

Pronunciation: /waɪt.spleɪn/

Definitions of whitesplain

verb to explain or comment on something in a condescending or patronizing manner, typically by a white person to a person of color, based on the assumption that the white person knows better

Example Sentences

A1 He whitesplains everything to me as if I don't already know.

A2 She often whitesplains topics that I am already familiar with.

B1 I find it frustrating when people whitesplain things to me without considering my knowledge.

B2 It is important to be aware of how one's actions may come across, especially when whitesplaining.

C1 The speaker was criticized for whitesplaining complex issues without acknowledging diverse perspectives.

C2 It is crucial to listen and learn from others instead of whitesplaining their experiences.

Examples of whitesplain in a Sentence

formal It is important to recognize and address instances of whitesplaining in academic discussions.

informal Stop whitesplaining to me about my own culture, I know what I'm talking about.

slang She was tired of him constantly whitesplaining everything to her.

figurative The politician's attempt to whitesplain the issue only served to further alienate minority voters.

Grammatical Forms of whitesplain

• past tense: whitesplained
• plural: whitesplains
• comparative: more whitesplaining
• superlative: most whitesplaining
• present tense: whitesplains
• future tense: will whitesplain
• perfect tense: has whitesplained
• continuous tense: is whitesplaining
• singular: whitesplainer
• positive degree: whitesplain
• infinitive: to whitesplain
• gerund: whitesplaining
• participle: whitesplained

Origin and Evolution of whitesplain

First Known Use: 2008 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The word 'whitesplain' is a blend of 'white' and 'explain', and it originated as a term used to describe the act of a white person condescendingly explaining something to a person of color, particularly on issues related to race or social justice.

Evolution of the word: Initially, 'whitesplain' was used colloquially within social justice circles to highlight and criticize instances of white people explaining issues to people of color without considering their perspectives or experiences. Over time, the term has gained broader recognition and is now used more widely to call out instances of racial condescension and privilege.