Plural form of hermaphrodite; organisms or individuals that possess reproductive organs characteristic of both male and female sexes.
From 'hermaphrodite,' derived from Hermaphroditus in Greek mythology, the child of Hermes and Aphrodite who merged with a nymph to become one being with both sexual characteristics.
Earthworms and snails are hermaphrodites—evolution gave them a clever backup plan, so if they can't find a mate, they can still reproduce, proving nature doesn't think in strict male/female terms.
Outdated clinical/dehumanizing term for intersex people. Named after Hermaphroditus, the term medicalized and exoticized intersex bodies as mythological curiosities rather than normal human variation. Widely recognized as offensive in contemporary usage.
Use 'intersex person' or 'intersex people'. Avoid 'hermaphrodite' entirely in modern discourse unless directly quoting historical medical text (and note its problematic status). Respect self-identification.
["intersex person/people","individual with intersex traits"]
Intersex activists have reclaimed agency from medical systems that treated them as specimens. The shift away from 'hermaphrodite' is a victory for intersex self-advocacy and dignity.
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