Pariah- Definition, Meaning, Synonyms & Etymology (2026)

A person who is rejected or cast out from a society or community, often because of their beliefs or behavior.
"The scientist's unethical experiments made him a pariah in the academic community."

The term has its origins in India, where it was used to describe members of the lowest social caste who were considered untouchable and were therefore shunned by the rest of society. Today, the term is used more broadly to describe anyone who is considered an outcast or an outsider in their community. Pariahs often face discrimination and social stigma, and may struggle to find acceptance and support from others.

1. The pariah found solace in the wilderness, away from judgmental eyes.
2. Despite his pariah status, he remained steadfast in his convictions.
3. She transformed from a pariah to a respected leader through her actions.
4. The pariah's exile left a void in the community he once called home.
5. The pariah's defiance of norms inspired a small but loyal following.
6. A pariah's tale of redemption often touches the deepest hearts.

The noun 'pariah' traces its etymological origins to India, where it has a deeply rooted historical significance. The term derives from the Tamil word 'paraiyar' or 'paraiyan,' which referred to a specific social group in India's caste system. The Paraiyars were often considered outside the traditional social hierarchy, marginalized, and subjected to discrimination. In the 17th century, European colonizers encountered this term and adapted it into English as 'pariah' to describe individuals who were rejected or cast out from society, typically due to their beliefs, behavior, or social status. Consequently, 'pariah' has come to symbolize someone who faces ostracism and exclusion, reflecting its historical origins in the Indian caste system.

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1. The pariah's art spoke volumes, bridging gaps in understanding.
2. In solitude, the pariah discovered strength and self-acceptance.
3. Society's rejection turned him into a defiant pariah with purpose.
4. The pariah's wisdom surpassed that of the conforming masses.
5. The pariah's isolation birthed a unique perspective on life.
6. Even as a pariah, she radiated kindness and compassion.
7. His pariah status didn't deter him from advocating for change.
8. The pariah's resilience became a symbol of hope for many.
9. A pariah's voice can be the catalyst for societal transformation.
10. The pariah's exile revealed the flaws in the community's judgment.
11. Her pariah journey led to self-discovery and personal growth.
12. The pariah's unconventional beliefs challenged societal norms.
13. The pariah's presence was a reminder of the society's intolerance.
14. A pariah's tale reminds us that acceptance begins with empathy.
15. The political leader was considered a pariah by the international community.
16. The company was forced to declare bankruptcy and its CEO became a pariah in the business world.
17. The socialite was ostracized and became a pariah among her peers.
18. He was treated as social pariah in the community due to his criminal record.
19. The country's actions led to it becoming a pariah nation in the international community.
20. The athlete's performance-enhancing drug scandal made him a pariah in the sports world.
21. As a pariah, he was not welcomed at any of the town's social gatherings.
22. Her extremist views made her a pariah in the political party.
23. The criminal's reputation as a pariah preceded him wherever he went.
24. The artist's controversial work had made her a pariah in the art world
25. The former executive had become a pariah in the industry after the company's scandal.
26. His history of unethical behavior made him a pariah among his colleagues.