Unity

/ˈjuːnəti/ noun

Definition

A state of being joined together or in agreement as one. It can describe both physical oneness and social or emotional togetherness.

Etymology

From Old French 'unité', from Latin 'ūnitās' meaning 'oneness', from 'ūnus' (one). It has been used in English since the 1200s.

Kelly Says

Unity is literally 'oneness', which is why it’s used for both groups and ideas. When people talk about 'national unity', they’re imagining millions of different lives forming a single 'one'.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Political and social appeals to 'unity' have sometimes been used to silence feminist and other equity movements, framing their demands as divisive. Calls for unity have often prioritized dominant-group comfort over addressing gendered and intersectional inequalities.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'unity' in ways that do not erase legitimate disagreement or pressure marginalized groups to accept unfair conditions; specify unity around which principles and whose voices are centered.

Inclusive Alternatives

["solidarity","coalition","shared purpose"]

Related Words

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