third gender
The concept of "third gender" challenges the traditional binary gender system and is recognized in various cultures with distinct social and legal implications.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
B2Cultural Studies
(formal, academic)A gender category in some cultures that is distinct from male and female, encompassing identities beyond the binary framework.
Example
- In South Asia, hijras are often recognized as a third gender.
- Many cultures have long recognized a third gender role.
B2Social Identity
(informal, contemporary)Individuals who do not identify strictly as male or female, often challenging traditional gender norms.
Example
- Some people prefer to identify as a third gender rather than male or female.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "third gender":
third sexfourth gendergender minoritygender diversegender bendercommon gender