A less common variant term for hermaphroditism, referring to the biological condition of having reproductive organs of both sexes.
Formed from 'hermaphrodite' plus the suffix '-ism,' meaning a condition or state; this variant developed as scientists sought precise terminology to describe biological conditions.
Biologists prefer different terms now (like 'intersex'), but 'hermaphrodism' shows how scientific language evolves—we stopped using gods' names and started describing actual biology.
Outdated medical term for intersex conditions. Derived from Hermaphroditus (mythological figure combining male and female attributes), the terminology medicalizes gender non-conformity and intersex status through a normative binary framework.
Replace with 'intersex' in contemporary usage. If referencing historical medical literature, note that 'hermaphrodism' was a problematic term that othered and pathologized natural human variation.
["intersex","disorder of sex development","specific clinical condition"]
Intersex activists fought to destigmatize their identities and reject outdated medical pathologization. The shift from 'hermaphrodism' to 'intersex' represents recognition of intersex people's self-determination and dignity.
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