Androgynous: meaning, definitions and examples

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androgynous

 

[ ændˈɹoʊdʒɪnəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

gender identity

Androgynous refers to a blend or mixture of male and female characteristics, often used in relation to gender expression or identity. It can describe physical appearance, clothing style, or behavior that does not conform strictly to traditional gender norms. The term often celebrates the fluidity of gender and challenges the binary view of male and female. Androgynous individuals may choose to embrace features or styles from both genders, thereby creating a distinctive personal identity.

Synonyms

gender-fluid, gender-neutral, hermaphrodite, unisex

Examples of usage

  • The actor's androgynous look captivated the audience.
  • She prefers androgynous fashion that blurs gender lines.
  • Androgynous models are increasingly popular in the fashion industry.

Translations

Translations of the word "androgynous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 andrógino

🇮🇳 अर्ध-नारी

🇩🇪 androgyn

🇮🇩 androgini

🇺🇦 андрогінний

🇵🇱 androgeniczny

🇯🇵 アンドロジナス

🇫🇷 androgyne

🇪🇸 andrógino

🇹🇷 androgini

🇰🇷 안드로진

🇸🇦 أندروجيني

🇨🇿 androgynní

🇸🇰 androgýnny

🇨🇳 双性

🇸🇮 androginen

🇮🇸 andrógín

🇰🇿 андрогинді

🇬🇪 ანდროგინული

🇦🇿 andrоgіn

🇲🇽 andrógino

Etymology

The term 'androgynous' has roots in the Greek words 'anēr' meaning 'man' and 'gynē' meaning 'woman'. It historically used to describe beings that embody both male and female traits. The concept can be traced back to ancient mythology, where androgynous figures symbolized the combination of both genders. Over time, the word evolved to include gender expressions that do not fit traditional male or female definitions. The use of the term in fashion and culture surged in the late 20th century, aligning with movements advocating for gender equality and the recognition of diverse gender identities. Today, androgyny is embraced in various contexts, including art, music, and fashion, reflecting society's growing acceptance of gender diversity.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,216, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.