a person who dresses in clothes of the opposite gender
from Latin trans 'across' + vestire 'to clothe'
Transvestite literally means 'cross-dresser' - trans means across, like crossing clothing styles!
Clinical term coined in early 20th century sexology; now considered medicalized and sometimes offensive. Modern terminology distinguishes between gender identity, presentation, and sexual orientation more precisely.
Use 'cross-dresser' for those who wear clothing associated with other genders, or 'transgender' when referring to gender identity. Always ask individuals their preferred terms.
["cross-dresser","transgender","gender non-conforming"]
Trans and gender non-conforming people have existed across cultures for centuries (hijra in South Asia, Two-Spirit in Indigenous North America); Western sexology pathologized rather than celebrated this diversity.
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