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The term “cisgender” might sound complex, but it has a straightforward meaning. Cisgender describes a person whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, if someone is born with male anatomy and identifies as a man, he is cisgender. Understanding the term can help in conversations about gender and identity.
Cisgender Meaning and Origin
- Cisgender refers to a person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.
What Does Cisgender Mean?
Simply defined, being cisgender, or ‘cis’ as it is more often referred to, means that you identify with your assigned sex at birth. For example, someone who was assigned female at birth but still identifies as a female today is cisgender.
The Origin of Cisgender
Being cisgender was first conceptualised as the counterpart to transgender in an effort to create more inclusive language. The Latin prefix ‘cis-‘ means ‘on this side’, and thus the term cisgender was born. Referring to everyone as either a ‘man’ or a ‘woman’ tends to normalise being cis. This makes it difficult for anyone who didn’t identify with their birth-gender to feel accepted and included. The popularity of the term ‘cisgender’ has risen over the last decade largely due to a wide variety of online forums and invested scholars who have been using the term in academic articles since the 1990s. However, cisgender was only widely accepted as an official term from 2015 when it was added to the Oxford Dictionary.
Other Meanings of Cisgender
A common misconception when people hear the term ‘cisgender’ is that they assume it relates to sexual orientation as well. This is presumably due to the unspoken necessity of labelling oneself based on gender and/or sexual orientation amongst the LGBTQIA+ community. Cisgender refers only to one’s gender identity and has no connotations towards one’s sexual orientation. Additionally, the initial reaction from most to hearing the term cisgender is assuming that anyone who is cisgender is also ‘straight’; this is not the case, as being cisgender and being ‘straight’ are not mutually inclusive.
Commonly Confused Terms with Cisgender
Various terms related to gender identity are often mixed up. Below, clear explanations differentiate between cisgender and similar sounding or related concepts.
Cisgender vs. Heterosexual
Cisgender means that a person’s gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth. Heterosexual, on the other hand, refers to a person’s sexual orientation towards the opposite sex.
For example, a cisgender woman who is attracted to men is considered heterosexual. It is possible to be cisgender and not heterosexual. For instance, a cisgender man can be gay or bisexual.
Cisgender vs. Intersex
Cisgender describes a match between gender identity and assigned sex at birth. Intersex is a condition where someone has physical sex characteristics from both male and female.
An intersex person may identify as cisgender if they identify with the sex assigned at birth. But, not all intersex people will have a cisgender identity. Their gender identity might be male, female, or non-binary.
Cisgender Examples
Here are some real-world examples of how this identity appears in daily life.
In Conversations
Conversation between friends:
- Alex: “I’ve been learning a lot about gender identities recently.”
- Taylor: “That’s great! I identify as cisgender, but it’s important to understand and respect all identities.”
- Conversation in a classroom:
- Teacher: “Can anyone explain what ‘cisgender’ means?”
- Student: “Sure, it means someone whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth.”
In Texting and Social Posts
Texting:
- “Just had a great conversation about gender identities. I learned that I’m cisgender.”
- “Are you familiar with the term ‘cisgender’? It means your gender identity matches your birth sex.”
Social Posts
- “As a cisgender ally, I believe in supporting the rights and identities of all people. #TransRights #LGBTQ”
- “Learning more about what it means to be cisgender and how to be a better ally. #GenderIdentity #Inclusivity”
- “I recently discovered that I’m cisgender. It’s important to understand and respect all gender identities.”
- “Supporting my friends who are not cisgender is crucial. Let’s create an inclusive and understanding community.”
- “Proud to be a cisgender ally. Let’s uplift and support all gender identities! 🌈 #Cisgender #Ally #LGBTQ”
- “Understanding that I’m cisgender helps me appreciate the diversity of gender experiences. #GenderIdentity #Inclusivity”
Other Examples of Cisgender
Cisgender people often fit into societal expectations for their gender. This includes career choices, hobbies, and personal style that align with traditional gender roles. They attend gender-specific events without questioning their place.
Examples:
- A cisgender man might enjoy typical “male” hobbies like sports
- A cisgender woman attending a women’s networking event feeling comfortable in the group
Notable Characteristics:
- Aligned with traditional gender roles
- Participation in gender-specific activities with comfort
These examples illustrate how being cisgender integrates seamlessly into various parts of everyday life.
Cisgender Terminology
Cisgender Synonyms
Synonyms for cisgender help clarify communication about gender identity. Some common synonyms include:
- Cis: A short form of cisgender. It is often used informally in conversations.
- Non-transgender: This term highlights the difference between cisgender and transgender identities, though it is less commonly used in casual settings.
Cisgender Antonyms
Antonyms for cisgender indicate identities that do not match one’s assigned birth sex. Some important antonyms are:
- Transgender: A broad term for people whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex at birth.
- Non-cisgender: This term serves as an umbrella for any gender identity that isn’t cisgender.
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