Ambosexual

/ˌæmboʊˈsɛkʃuəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or attracted to people of multiple genders, or having characteristics associated with both masculine and feminine traits.

Etymology

From Latin 'ambo-' (both) + 'sexual' (relating to sex or sexuality), a more streamlined modern formation than 'ambosexous' designed to parallel 'bisexual' and 'asexual'.

Kelly Says

While rarely used today, 'ambosexual' demonstrates how English repeatedly tries to create gender-neutral terminology—each generation invents new words reflecting their evolving understanding of human sexuality and identity.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Modern variant of 'ambosexous,' used in contemporary discourse to describe sexual orientation or gender fluidity. The term carries assumptions about binary sex categories and may conflate biological sex with gender identity or sexual attraction in imprecise ways.

Inclusive Usage

Use precise, identity-affirming language: 'bisexual,' 'pansexual,' 'genderfluid,' or 'non-binary' depending on context. Avoid 'ambosexual' unless the person explicitly uses it for themselves.

Inclusive Alternatives

["bisexual","pansexual","genderfluid","non-binary","fluid sexuality"]

Related Words

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