definition segregation
segregation Segregation is a system that keeps different groups separate from each other, either through physical dividers or using social pressures and laws. The Latin root literally means âseparated from the flock,â and splitting a big flock of sheep into smaller groups is segregation. For many decades in the United States, âseparate but equalâ was the phrase used to describe the unjust racial segregation of black people and white people. There are harmless types of segregation as well, like the segregation of dog food and human food in your cupboards..