Transgender

Transgender is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.

Transgender is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. It may include trans men, trans women, and some non-binary people, though definitions vary across sources and communities. Being transgender is distinct from sexual orientation.

Definition

Transgender is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. It may include trans men, trans women, and some non-binary people, though definitions vary across sources and communities.

Terminology and scope

The term transgender is often used as an umbrella category for multiple identities. Related terms include trans (a common shortened form) and cisgender (the opposite term for those whose gender identity matches assigned sex). Some modern definitions include non-binary and genderqueer people under the transgender umbrella, though usage varies.

Relationship to sexual orientation

Transgender identity is separate from sexual orientation. While transgender refers to gender identity, sexual orientation concerns romantic or sexual attraction. A transgender person can be straight, gay, bisexual, or any other orientation.

History and usage

The term has been used in broader and narrower senses over time. The term trans or trans* has been used to include a wider range of non-cisgender identities. Academic and public usage has evolved, with the term sometimes used as an inclusive term for diverse gender-variant identities.