Transgender Terminology

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Transgender terminology includes words and phrases that are commonly used to describe and discuss topics related to gender identity and expression.

Gender Identity: This topic covers the individual's sense of self regarding their gender identity. It includes an understanding of the difference between sex and gender and how people of different gender identities may express themselves.
Gender Expression: This topic focuses on the various ways that individuals express their gender, including cultural norms, fashion, makeup, and other forms of self-expression.
Biological Sex: This topic discusses the physical differences between males and females, including chromosomes, hormones, genitalia, and reproductive systems.
Gender Dysphoria: Gender dysphoria is a condition in which an individual experiences distress related to their gender identity not aligning with their biological sex.
Transgender: This topic focuses on individuals who identify with a gender that differs from their biological sex. It covers the experiences, challenges, and discrimination faced by transgender individuals.
Cisgender: This topic discusses individuals who identify with the gender assigned to them at birth, also known as non-transgender individuals.
Non-Binary: Non-binary individuals identify with a gender that falls outside the traditional binary of male or female. This topic covers different non-binary identities and experiences.
Gender Non-Conforming: Gender non-conforming individuals do not adhere to traditional gender roles or expressions. This topic covers different forms of gender non-conformity.
Gender Reassignment Surgery: This topic encompasses medical procedures for individuals who wish to change their physical appearance to align with their gender identity.
Hormone Replacement Therapy: Hormone replacement therapy is a medical treatment that involves using hormones that align with an individual's gender identity.
Pronouns: This topic discusses the importance of using the correct pronouns when addressing individuals of different gender identities.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality is the study of how different identities, such as race, sexual orientation, and gender, intersect and affect an individual's experiences and their struggles against discrimination.
Transphobia: Transphobia refers to discrimination or hatred against transgender individuals. This topic discusses the various forms that transphobia can take and how to combat it.
Allyship: Allyship is about actively supporting and advocating for transgender individuals. This topic discusses how allies can make a difference in the fight for transgender rights and inclusion.
Transgender Rights: This topic discusses the legal and social challenges faced by transgender individuals in accessing rights and equality, as well as the progress made in recent years to promote transgender rights.
Transgender: A term used to describe a person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
Cisgender: A term used to describe a person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.
Non-binary: A term used to describe a person who identifies as neither entirely male nor entirely female and may identify as a combination of genders or as no gender at all.
Genderqueer: A term used to describe a person with a non-normative or non-binary gender identity.
Intersex: A term used to describe a person who is born with a reproductive or sexual anatomy that doesn't fit typical male or female classifications.
Cross-dresser: A term used to describe a person who wears clothing typically associated with a different gender.
Transsexual: A term used to describe a person who has undergone medical interventions, such as hormone therapy or gender-affirming surgeries, to transition from one gender to another.
Gender-affirming surgery: A surgical procedure that alters a person's body to better align with their gender identity.
Hormone replacement therapy: A medical treatment used to modify physical and/or emotional characteristics related to gender.
Passing: A term used to describe when someone is perceived as the gender they identify with by others around them.
Deadnaming: Using the former name of a transgender person, which they may no longer identify with, without their consent.
Misgendering: Using the incorrect pronouns or gendered language to refer to a transgender person.
Top surgery: A type of gender-affirming surgery that alters the chest to create a more masculine or feminine appearance.
Bottom surgery: A type of gender-affirming surgery that alters the genitals to create a more masculine or feminine appearance.
Gender dysphoria: A feeling of discomfort or distress that can occur when a person's gender identity conflicts with their assigned gender at birth.