Gender Meaning and Definition
Gender
Pronunciation
/ˈdʒɛndər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The state of being male, female, or an intermediate or mixed gender, or the classification of a person as male, female, or something else, based on their sex, reproductive organs, or other factors.
Examples
- The gender of the baby was revealed at the ultrasound.
- Gender equality is a fundamental human right.
Synonyms
- Sex
- Gender identity
Antonyms
- Not applicable
- Gender neutrality
Additional Information
Gender is a complex and multifaceted concept that goes beyond biological sex. It encompasses social, cultural, and psychological aspects that influence an individual’s identity, expression, and experiences. Gender identity refers to a person’s internal sense of being male, female, or something else, which may or may not align with their biological sex.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of non-binary and gender-nonconforming individuals, who do not identify exclusively as male or female. This shift in understanding has led to increased awareness and advocacy for gender equality, diversity, and inclusivity.
Etymology
The word “gender” originated from Old French “gendre,” meaning “kind” or “sort,” and is derived from Latin “genus,” meaning “birth” or “origin.”
Usage Notes
When referring to individuals, use the pronouns and language that align with their gender identity. Use gender-neutral language when referring to groups or unknown individuals.
Cultural References
Gender has been a central theme in various works of literature, art, and film, such as Virginia Woolf’s “Orlando” and the film “The Danish Girl.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Gender gap, gender role, gender bias, gender equality, gender identity, gender expression.
Related Words or Phrases
Sex, gender identity, gender expression, gender roles, gender stereotypes.
Collocations
Gender equality, gender identity, gender roles, gender stereotypes.
Frequency of Use
The word “gender” has become increasingly popular in recent years, with a significant rise in usage since the 1990s.
Common Misspellings
Gender can often be misspelled as “gender”, “gendre”, or “gennder”.