the belief that all members of each race possess characteristics, abilities, or qualities specific to that race, especially so as to distinguish it as inferior or superior to another race or races. 'theories of racism'prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior. 'a programme to combat racism'synonyms:racial discrimination, racialism, racial prejudice/bigotry, xenophobia, chauvinism,bigotry, bias, intolerance; anti-Semitism; historicalapartheid