A negative mark or label assigned to individuals, groups, or behaviors that society deems unacceptable, taboo, or morally wrong. This social disapproval often leads to discrimination, prejudice, and marginalization, as those labeled by stigma are treated differently or even shunned. Stigmas have existed throughout history in relation to race, gender, religion, sexuality, mental health, and substance use, and they reflect societal norms, beliefs, and fears.
🔊 STIG·muh
In the Wild — Example
The stigma surrounding cannabis use has faded dramatically in states where it's been legal for several years.
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The hair-like part of the female flower that protrudes from the pistil, serving as the pollen receptor during pollination. Stigmas are thin, often white or light-colored strands that turn orange or brown as the plant matures. While stigmas are part of the reproductive structure, they do not contain cannabinoids themselves; rather, they indicate flower maturity and are a sign of a plant’s readiness for harvest when they change color.
In the Wild — Example
The stigma is essential for the cannabis plant to catch pollen and produce seeds.
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