Discrimination refers to the unfair or prejudicial treatment of individuals or groups based on certain protected characteristics, such as race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. It involves making employment decisions, including hiring, firing, promotions, or compensation, that are biased or unequal due to these characteristics.

Example
If a qualified female employee is passed over for a promotion in favor of a less qualified male colleague solely because of her gender, it constitutes gender discrimination.