Terminology

This page explains words and phrases that are often used when talking about transgender, gender diverse and non-binary people. Language in this field can sometimes feel complex or unfamiliar, and different individuals and communities may use terms in different ways.

Terminology around gender is continually evolving. New words emerge, meanings shift, and some terms may fall out of use over time. While we aim to use respectful, inclusive and up-to-date language, it is important to recognise that no list can fully capture the diversity of people’s experiences.

The terms explained here are not labels that everyone will use for themselves. Each person’s experience of gender is personal, and individuals are the experts on their own identities. Some people may use more than one term, while others may not use any of these words at all.

Although shared language can help support understanding and discussion, labels are not always welcomed by those to whom they are applied. Terms should be used thoughtfully and only where helpful, and should always reflect how individuals describe themselves, rather than being imposed by others.

Meanings can also vary depending on culture, community and personal experience. If you are unsure about what words to use, it is always appropriate to listen and ask respectfully.

This resource is intended to support understanding and encourage respectful, informed conversations about gender diversity.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

Affirmed Gender

A person’s affirmed gender is the gender they are presenting in a way that aligns their social gender role and presentation. It may be the same as, or different from, the sex they were assigned at birth.

Using someone’s affirmed gender means recognising and respecting who they are, including the name and pronouns they use. A person’s affirmed gender does not depend on medical treatment, legal documents, or how they look.

Agender

Agender describes a person who does not identify with any gender. Some agender people feel they have no gender at all, while others may feel neutral about gender or disconnected from the idea of gender.

Agender people may identify as trans, non-binary, both, or neither. There is no single way to look or be agender, and people may express themselves in many different ways.

Ally

An ally is someone who is not transgender or gender diverse themselves but who supports and respects transgender, gender diverse and non-binary people.

Being an ally can include listening to trans and gender diverse people, using respectful language, challenging discrimination when it is safe to do so, and continuing to learn about gender diversity.

Asexual

Asexual describes a person who experiences little or no sexual attraction to others. Some asexual people may still want close relationships, including romantic relationships, while others may not.

Asexuality is about sexual attraction, not behaviour. Asexual people may have sex or choose not to, and they may have any gender identity. Some people use the shorter term “ace”.

Assigned Female at Birth (AFAB)

Assigned female at birth, often shortened to AFAB, means that a person was labelled female when they were born, usually based on their body.

This term describes an assignment made by others, not a person’s gender. Someone who is AFAB may be a woman, a man, non-binary, or have another gender identity.

Assigned Male at Birth (AMAB)

Assigned male at birth, often shortened to AMAB, means that a person was labelled male when they were born, usually based on their body.

This term describes an assignment made by others, not a person’s gender. Someone who is AMAB may be a man, a woman, non-binary, or have another gender identity.

B

Bi-gender

Bi-gender describes a person who identifies with two genders. These genders may be experienced at the same time or at different times.

The two genders may be any genders, such as woman and man, or a gender and non-binary identity. Each bi-gender person’s experience is individual.

Binder

A binder is a piece of clothing worn to flatten or reduce the appearance of the chest. Some transgender, non-binary and gender diverse people use binders to feel more comfortable in their body or to express their gender.

Binders should be worn safely and according to guidance, as wearing one that does not fit properly or wearing it for too long can cause discomfort or health problems.

Biological Sex

Biological sex is a term sometimes used to describe physical characteristics such as chromosomes, hormones, and reproductive anatomy.

This term can be misleading because bodies are naturally diverse and do not fit neatly into only two categories. Biological sex is also different from gender, which is about a person’s identity and how they understand themselves. Many people avoid using this term and instead use more specific language, such as sex assigned at birth.

Bi/bisexual

Bisexual, often shortened to bi, describes a person who is attracted to more than one gender. This does not have to mean attraction to all genders, or attraction to different genders in the same way or to the same degree.

Bisexual people may have any gender identity, and bisexuality is just one of many ways people experience attraction.

Biphobia

Biphobia is prejudice, fear, or negative attitudes towards bisexual people. It can come from people who are straight, gay or lesbian.

Biphobia can include denying that bisexuality is real, assuming bisexual people are confused or untrustworthy, or treating them unfairly because of their sexuality.

C

Cisgender

Cisgender describes a person whose gender is the same as the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, someone who was assigned female at birth and identifies as a woman may describe themselves as cisgender.

Cisgender is simply a descriptive term. It is not an insult and does not mean that someone is not supportive of transgender or gender diverse people.

Coming Out

Coming out is the process of telling others about your gender identity or sexuality, if and when you choose to do so.

Coming out is a personal choice. Some people come out to a few trusted people, while others may be open in some areas of their life and not in others. People may come out more than once as their circumstances or understanding of themselves change.

D

Dead-naming

Deadnaming is when someone refers to a transgender or gender diverse person by a name they no longer use, often the name they were given at birth.

Deadnaming can be upsetting or harmful because it does not respect a person’s identity. Using someone’s correct name is an important way to show respect and support.

De-transition

De-transition is a term some people use to describe stopping or changing parts of a gender transition. This might involve social, legal, or medical aspects of transition.

People de-transition for many different reasons, and experiences vary widely. De-transition does not mean that being transgender is a mistake, and it does not invalidate other people’s gender identities or transitions. Some people who de-transition still identify as transgender or gender diverse, while others do not.

Differences of Sex Development (DSD)

Differences of sex development, often shortened to DSD, is a medical term used to describe people who are born with physical sex characteristics, such as chromosomes, hormones or anatomy, that do not fit typical ideas of male or female bodies.

Some people use or accept this term, while others prefer the term intersex. People have different views about the language used to describe their bodies, so it is important to respect the words an individual chooses.

E

F

Female to Male (FtM)

Female to male, often shortened to FtM, is a term sometimes used to describe a transgender person who was assigned female at birth and identifies as male.

Some people use this term for themselves, while others prefer different language, such as trans man or man. Because this term focuses on sex assigned at birth, it may not feel comfortable or appropriate for everyone.

G

Gender

Gender is about how a person understands and experiences themselves, such as being a woman, a man, both, neither, or another gender. It can also include how someone expresses themselves and how they are seen by others.

Gender is different from sex assigned at birth, which is based on physical characteristics. People experience and express gender in many different ways and is a self defined experience.

Gender Affirming

Gender affirming describes actions, care, or environments that support and respect a person’s gender. This can include using someone’s correct name and pronouns, respecting how they dress or express themselves, and providing healthcare or services that recognise their gender.

What is gender affirming will be different for each person. Gender affirming support does not require medical treatment and is about helping people feel seen, respected and safe.

Gender Diversity

Gender diversity describes the wide range of genders that people experience and express. This includes people who are transgender, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming.

Gender diversity recognises that not everyone experiences gender in the same way, and that all genders are equally valid.

Gender Dysphoria

Gender dysphoria describes the distress or discomfort that some people feel when their gender is not recognised or when their body does not feel right for them.

Not all transgender or gender diverse people experience gender dysphoria, and the intensity can vary. Gender dysphoria may change over time and can be affected by how supported and affirmed a person feels.

Gender Expression

Gender expression is how a person shows their gender through things like clothing, hairstyle, voice, body language, or behaviour.

Gender expression does not always match a person’s gender identity, and it does not tell you what someone’s gender is. People express their gender in many different ways, and there is no right or wrong way to do so.

Gender Fluid

Gender fluid describes a person whose gender changes over time. Someone who is gender fluid may feel like different genders at different times, or their gender may shift in how it is felt or expressed.

Gender fluid people may identify as transgender, non-binary, both, or neither. Each person’s experience of being gender fluid is unique.

Gender Identity

Gender identity is a person’s internal sense of their own gender, such as being a woman, a man, both, neither, or another gender.

Gender identity may or may not match the sex someone was assigned at birth. Everyone has a gender identity, including people who are cisgender, transgender, and non-binary.

Gender Incongruence

Gender incongruence describes a situation where a person’s gender identity does not match the sex they were assigned at birth.

This term is sometimes used in medical or diagnostic settings. Not everyone uses or relates to this term, and some people may prefer language like transgender or gender diverse. Experiences of gender incongruence vary from person to person and do not always involve distress.

Gender Questioning

Gender questioning describes a person who is exploring or unsure about their gender identity.

Someone who is gender questioning may be thinking about whether the gender they were assigned at birth feels right for them, or whether another gender fits better. This can be a temporary or longer-term experience. There is no pressure to choose a label, and questioning is a valid part of understanding yourself.

Gender Reassignment

Gender reassignment is a legal term used in the UK to describe the process of changing one’s legal gender. It can also be used more broadly to describe steps someone takes to live in their affirmed gender.

Gender reassignment does not require medical treatment or surgery. It can include social changes, such as using a different name or pronouns, and legal changes, such as updating documents. The term is commonly used in law, including the Equality Act 2010, but many people prefer terms like transition or gender affirming.

Gender Variance

Gender variance describes gender identities or expressions that differ from traditional expectations of how men and women are thought to look or behave.

It can include people who are transgender, non-binary, or gender diverse, as well as people whose gender identity or expression differs from the social norm. Some people use this term for themselves, while others do not.

Gillick Competence

Gillick competence is a legal term used in the UK. It describes whether a child or young person under 16 has enough understanding and maturity to make their own decisions about medical treatment.

If a young person is considered Gillick competent, they may be able to consent to certain treatments without permission from a parent or guardian. Each decision is assessed individually, based on the young person’s ability to understand what is involved, including the benefits and risks.

Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC)

A Gender Recognition Certificate, often called a GRC, is a legal document in the UK that allows a transgender person to have their gender legally recognised for most purposes.

Having a GRC means a person can update their legal gender on documents such as their birth certificate. Not all transgender people want or need a GRC, and a person’s gender is valid whether or not they have one. Applying for a GRC is a personal choice and can be a complex process.

Gender Recognition Act (GRA 2004)

The Gender Recognition Act 2004 is a UK law that allows some transgender people to have their gender legally recognised.

Under this law, a person can apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC). If granted, this allows them to update their legal gender on their birth certificate and be recognised in law as their affirmed gender for most purposes.

The process for applying is set out in the law and can be complex. Not all transgender people apply for or want a Gender Recognition Certificate, and a person’s gender is valid whether or not they have one.

H

Homophobia

Homophobia is prejudice, fear, or negative attitudes towards people who are gay or lesbian.

Homophobia can include harmful language, discrimination, exclusion, harassment, or violence. It can happen in everyday interactions, online, in the media, or through laws and policies, and it can have serious impacts on people’s wellbeing and safety.

I

J

Jacob Syndrome

Jacob syndrome, also known as XYY syndrome, is a genetic variation where a person has an extra Y chromosome. It is usually written as 47, XYY.

People with XYY syndrome are typically assigned male at birth. Some may be taller than average or have differences in learning or development, while many have no obvious signs. Having XYY syndrome does not determine a person’s gender identity or personality.

K

Klinefelter Syndrome

Klinefelter syndrome, sometimes called XXY syndrome, is a genetic variation where a person has an extra X chromosome. It is usually written as 47, XXY.

People with Klinefelter syndrome are typically assigned male at birth. Some may have differences in puberty, fertility, or development, while others may not notice any significant differences. Having Klinefelter syndrome does not determine a person’s gender identity.

L

LGBTQIA+

LGBTQIA+ is an umbrella term used to describe a wide range of sexual orientations and gender identities. It stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex and asexual. The “+” recognises that there are many other identities not fully captured by these letters.

Not everyone included under LGBTQIA+ will use this term for themselves, but it is often used when talking about communities, rights, or shared experiences.

M

Male to Female (MtF)

Male to female, often shortened to MtF, is a term sometimes used to describe a transgender person who was assigned male at birth and identifies as female.

Some people use this term for themselves, while others prefer different language, such as trans woman or woman. Because this term focuses on sex assigned at birth, it may not feel comfortable or appropriate for everyone.

Medical Transition

Medical transition refers to medical treatments that some transgender and gender diverse people choose to align their physical characteristics with their gender identity.

This can include hormone therapy and some types of surgery. Not all transgender or gender diverse people want or need medical transition, and choosing not to medically transition does not make someone’s gender any less valid. Medical transition is a personal choice and looks different for each person.

Misgendering

Misgendering is when someone refers to a person using the wrong gender, name, or pronouns.

Misgendering can be upsetting or harmful, especially when it happens repeatedly or on purpose. If a mistake is made, a brief apology and using the correct terms going forward is usually the best response.

N

Neurodivergent

Neurodivergent describes people whose brains work in ways that differ from what is considered typical. This can include people who are autistic, have ADHD, dyslexia, or other neurological differences.

Neurodivergent is not a medical diagnosis. Many people use it as an identity term to describe and value natural differences in how people think, learn, and experience the world.

Non-gender

Non-gender is a term some people use to describe not having a gender, or not relating to the idea of gender at all.

It is similar to the term agender. Not everyone will recognise or use this word, and people may choose different terms to describe similar experiences. As with all gender identities, it is best to use the language a person chooses for themselves.

Non-binary

Non-binary describes people whose gender is not only male or female. A non-binary person may feel their gender is somewhere in between, a mix of genders, or outside of these categories altogether.

Non-binary people may identify as transgender, gender diverse, or neither. There are many different non-binary identities, and each person’s experience is unique.

O

Outed

Being outed is when someone else shares information about a person’s gender identity or sexuality without their permission.

Outing someone can be harmful and may put them at risk. Everyone has the right to decide when, how, and who they come out to.

P

Packing

Packing is when someone wears a prosthetic or padding in their underwear or clothing to create the appearance of a bulge in the groin area.

Some transgender, non-binary and gender diverse people pack to feel more comfortable in their body or to express their gender. Packing is a personal choice, and not everyone will want or need to do it.

Pangender

Pangender describes a person who identifies with many genders, or with all genders.

A pangender person’s experience of gender can vary widely and may change over time. There is no single way to be pangender, and people may express their gender in different ways.

Pan/pansexual

Pansexual, often shortened to pan, describes a person who is attracted to people of all genders, or whose attraction is not limited by gender.

Pansexual people may have any gender identity, and attraction can look different from person to person.

Passing

Passing is a term used to describe when a transgender or gender diverse person is seen by others as the gender they are, often without being recognised as trans.

Some people want to pass because it can help them feel safe or comfortable, while others do not want or need to pass at all. The idea of passing can be complicated, as it can place pressure on people to look or behave in certain ways. A person’s gender is valid whether or not they pass.

Person with a Trans History

Passing is a term used to describe when a transgender or gender diverse person is seen by others as the gender they are, often without being recognised as trans.

Person with a Trans History

A person with a trans history is someone who has transitioned or previously identified as transgender, but who may not describe themselves as trans now.

This term is sometimes used by people who want privacy about their past or who do not feel that being trans is a central part of their current identity. Language choices around this can be personal, and it is important to respect how someone describes themselves.

Polygender

Polygender describes a person who identifies with multiple genders. These genders may be experienced at the same time or at different times.

The genders a polygender person identifies with can be any, and each person’s experience is unique.

Progress Pride Flag

In 2017, Philadelphia’s Office of LGBT Affairs added black and brown stripes to the Pride flag to recognise people of colour. The Progress Pride flag was developed in 2018 by non-binary American artist and designer Daniel Quasar (who uses xe/xyr pronouns). Based on the iconic 1978 rainbow flag, the redesign celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQ community and calls for a more inclusive society.

It includes the traditional rainbow stripes, with additional sections (blue, pink, and white) representing transgender people and (black and brown) representing marginalised people of colour in the LGBTQ+ community. “The arrow points to the right to show forward movement, while being along the left edge shows that progress still needs to be made,” explained Daniel Quasar.

The yellow and purple elements—representing the intersex community—were officially added to the Progress Pride flag in June 2021.

The flag is used to show solidarity, visibility, and a commitment to equality for all parts of the community.

Pronouns

Pronouns are words used to refer to someone instead of their name, such as she/her, he/him, or they/them. Some people use neopronouns to better reflect their gender identity, especially within nonbinary, genderqueer, or neurodivergent communities. Examples of neopronouns or gender-neutral pronouns include xe/xem/xyr and ze/hir/hirs.

Using the pronouns a person asks for is a simple way to show respect and support. Some people use more than one set of pronouns, and a person’s pronouns do not always indicate their gender.

Q

Queer

Queer is an umbrella term that some people use to describe their gender, their sexuality, or both, especially if they do not fit into traditional categories.

Queer has been used as a slur in the past and some people still find it hurtful. Many people have reclaimed the word and use it positively, but it is important to be guided by how individuals choose to describe themselves.

Questioning

Questioning describes a person who is exploring or unsure about their gender identity, sexuality, or both.

Being questioning is a natural and genuine experience. People may spend different amounts of time questioning, and there is no pressure to find a label if someone does not want to.

R

S

Sex

Sex is a term often used to describe physical characteristics such as chromosomes, hormones, and reproductive anatomy. At birth, a sex is usually assigned based on a person’s body, and this is recorded on documents such as a birth certificate.

Sex is not the same as gender. Bodies are naturally diverse, and not everyone fits typical ideas of male or female. Some people are intersex, meaning their sex characteristics do not fit these categories.

Sexual Orientation

Sexual orientation describes who someone is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to, or whether they feel this kind of attraction at all.

Sexual orientation is different from gender identity. People of any gender can have any sexual orientation, and it may change over time for some people.

Social Transition

Social transition refers to changes a person may make in how they live and are recognised by others, to better reflect their gender.

This can include using a different name or pronouns, changing how they dress or express themselves, or asking others to recognise them as their affirmed gender. Not all transgender or gender diverse people choose to socially transition, and social transition can happen in different ways and at different times for different people.

Stealth

Stealth describes when a transgender person chooses not to share that they are trans and lives without others knowing about their trans history.

Some people live stealth for privacy, safety, or personal reasons. Being stealth is a personal choice. No one is required to disclose their trans status, and it is important to respect a person’s privacy.

T

Third Gender

Third gender is a term used in some cultures to describe people who do not identify strictly as male or female.

In certain countries and communities, third gender is a recognised social or legal category with its own history and meaning. Not all non-binary or transgender people use this term, and it should be understood in its specific cultural context.

T4T

T4T stands for “trans for trans”. It describes when a transgender person chooses to date or have relationships with other transgender people.

Some people use T4T to describe a preference in dating, often because they feel understood, safer, or more comfortable with other trans people. Not all trans people identify with or use this term.

Trans / Transgender

Transgender, often shortened to trans, describes people whose gender is different from the sex they were assigned at birth.

Trans people have many different genders and experiences. Being trans does not depend on medical treatment, legal recognition, or how someone looks. A person’s gender is valid, whether or not they pursue social or medical affirmation.

Trans Feminine

Trans feminine describes a transgender or gender diverse person whose gender is feminine, or who identifies more with femininity.

This term is often used by people who were assigned male at birth, but not always. Trans feminine people may identify as women, non-binary, or another gender, and may express their gender in many different ways.

Trans Flag

The trans flag is a flag used to represent transgender people and communities. It has five horizontal stripes: light blue, pink, white, pink, and light blue.

The light blue and pink are colours traditionally associated with baby boys and baby girls, and the white stripe represents people who are transgender, non-binary, intersex, or questioning. The flag is often used to show visibility, pride, and support for trans people.

Trans Man

A trans man is a man who was assigned female at birth.

Trans men are men. Being a trans man does not depend on medical treatment, legal documents, or how someone looks. Some trans men may also describe themselves using other terms, such as transgender or gender diverse.

Trans Masculine

Trans masculine describes a transgender or gender diverse person whose gender is masculine, or who identifies more with masculinity.

This term is often used by people who were assigned female at birth, but not always. Trans masculine people may identify as men, non-binary, or another gender, and may express their gender in many different ways.

Trans Woman

A trans woman is a woman who was assigned male at birth.

Trans women are women. Being a trans woman does not depend on medical treatment, legal documents, or how someone looks. Some trans women may also describe themselves using other terms, such as transgender or gender diverse.

Transitioning

Transitioning describes the process of making changes to live in a way that reflects your gender. It is often used to talk about someone who is in the process of transition. Gender affirmation looks different for everyone and transitioning is a deeply personal, optional journey, not a requirement for being trans.

Transitioning can include social, legal, and medical changes, such as using a different name or pronouns, updating documents, or accessing healthcare. Not everyone transitions in the same way, and some people do not transition at all. Transitioning is personal and happens at a pace that is right for each person.