Defining the word "Stereotype"

A Positive Origin

The word “stereotype” was first invented by French printer Firmin Didot around 1794. In the printing world this was a process where cookie cutter like molds were used to produce duplicate metal plates. This process made it possible to print newspapers and books on several presses at the same time.

Positive Definitions

Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

(n.) A plate with type-metal face, used for printing.

(v.) To make firm or permanent; “to fix.”

Babylon English Dictionary

(n.) Old process for making metal printing plates.

A Negative Origin

The negative connotation started in Walter Lippmann’s book “Public Opinion” in 1922, which was a view of the public mind. Lippmann believed voters were largely ignorant about political issues and cared little for participating in the political process. He argued that distorted information was inherent in the human mind. People make up their minds before they define the facts, even though they should gather and analyze the facts first before reaching conclusions. By seeing first it is possible to sanitize polluted information. Lippmann said the herd of citizens must be governed by “a specialized class whose interests reach beyond the locality." This class is composed of experts, specialists and bureaucrats. These classes are called “stereotypes.”

Negative Definitions

The American Heritage® New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition (2005)

(n.) A generalization, usually exaggerated or oversimplified and often offensive, that is used to describe or distinguish a group.

Merriam-Webster's Medical Dictionary (2002)

(n.) An often oversimplified or biased mental picture held to characterize the typical individual of a group.