The Enby Meaning Glossary
Language for Living Beyond the Binary
This glossary is here to help clarify language around gender, identity, and inclusivity. Words mean different things to different people, so we aim to define terms clearly and respectfully, with room for fluidity and growth.
A
Agender: A person who does not identify with any gender. Some agender people describe themselves as having no gender, being gender-neutral, or outside the gender system entirely. Agender is a valid non-binary identity.
AFAB / AMAB (Assigned Female/Male At Birth): Acronyms used to describe the gender someone was presumed to be at birth. Often used in medical, activist, or educational contexts, but not always preferred by individuals themselves. Always defer to how someone self-identifies.
Ally: Someone who supports and advocates for marginalised groups they are not part of. In LGBTQIA+ contexts, allies actively work to challenge homophobia, transphobia, and gender-based discrimination in their communities and institutions.
Androgynous: A term used to describe a gender expression that blends or avoids traditional ideas of masculinity and femininity. Androgyny can be a style, identity, or personal aesthetic—not all androgynous people are non-binary.
Asexual (Ace): A person who experiences little or no sexual attraction to others. Asexuality exists on a spectrum and may include identities like demisexual, graysexual, or sex-repulsed. Asexuality is about attraction—not necessarily behaviour.
B
Binding: The practice of flattening the chest using a binder or compression garment, often used by transmasculine and non-binary people to reduce gender dysphoria or express gender identity. It's important to bind safely, using purpose-made binders and following guidelines to avoid injury or long-term harm.
Bigender: A gender identity in which a person experiences two genders, either at the same time or shifting between them. These genders may be binary (male and female), non-binary, or culturally specific. Bigender people may feel different intensities of each gender at different times.
Binary Gender: The classification of gender into two distinct and opposite forms—male and female—based on sex assigned at birth. This binary model is socially constructed and does not account for the diversity of gender identities and experiences outside of it.
BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour): A term used to centre the specific, compounded oppressions faced by Black, Indigenous, and other people of colour—particularly within predominantly white spaces. In LGBTQIA+ contexts, recognising BIPOC experiences is essential to intersectional inclusion.
Butch: Often used to describe a queer person—especially in lesbian and sapphic communities—who embraces masculinity in their appearance, behaviour, or gender expression. Butch can also be a gender identity in itself and is proudly claimed by some non-binary and trans people.
C
Cisgender (Cis): A person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, someone assigned female at birth who identifies as a woman is cisgender. “Cis” is not a slur—it’s simply a descriptor, just like “trans.”
Coming Out: The process of recognising, accepting, and sharing one’s gender identity or sexual orientation with others. Coming out is deeply personal, can happen in stages, and may be ongoing throughout a person’s life. No one is ever obligated to come out.
Chosen Family: A group of supportive people—often queer, trans, or non-binary—who are not biologically or legally related but serve as a source of love, safety, and emotional connection. Chosen family can be especially important for those rejected by their families of origin.
Clocking: A slang term for when someone’s gender identity (often a trans or non-binary person’s) is perceived or questioned based on appearance, voice, or mannerisms. This term can carry negative or neutral connotations depending on context. Some view it as intrusive or dysphoria-inducing.
Crossdressing: The act of wearing clothing traditionally associated with another gender. Crossdressing is a form of gender expression, not necessarily tied to one’s gender identity or sexual orientation. Not all people who crossdress identify as trans or non-binary.
D
Deadname: The birth name or former name of a trans or non-binary person that they no longer use. Using someone’s deadname without their consent is considered disrespectful and harmful. Always use a person’s current, self-identified name.
Demi- (as a prefix): Refers to partial or conditional experiences of identity. Commonly used in terms like demiboy, demigirl, or demisexual, it describes someone who partially identifies with a gender or only experiences attraction under specific circumstances.
Demiboy / Demigirl: A demiboy is someone who partially identifies with being a boy/man but not entirely. A demigirl partially identifies with being a girl/woman. These identities can be used by people of any gender assigned at birth and often exist under the non-binary umbrella.
Demisexual: A sexual orientation in which a person feels sexual attraction only after forming a deep emotional connection. Demisexuality exists on the asexual spectrum and varies from person to person in terms of how and when attraction occurs.
Dysphoria: Short for gender dysphoria, this term describes the emotional distress someone may feel when their gender identity doesn’t align with their physical body or how they’re perceived by others. Not all trans or non-binary people experience dysphoria, but for those who do, it can affect mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
E
Enby: A phonetic spelling of “NB,” short for non-binary. “Enby” is an affirming and community-created term used by many people who identify outside the male/female binary. Not all non-binary people use the word enby, but for those who do, it can feel more approachable or personally resonant.
Euphoria (Gender Euphoria): The positive emotional state a person experiences when their gender identity is affirmed—through appearance, pronouns, names, clothing, or recognition. Gender euphoria is just as valid and important to acknowledge as gender dysphoria.
Expression (Gender Expression): The external presentation of one’s gender through clothing, hair, voice, behaviour, and other markers. Gender expression may or may not align with a person’s gender identity. It’s individual, fluid, and shaped by cultural context as well as personal choice.
Endosex: A term for people whose physical sex characteristics align with medical or cultural norms for “male” or “female” bodies—i.e., not intersex. Endosex is not a gender identity, but a descriptor of how one’s body is socially categorised.
Erasure (Gender or Identity Erasure): The act of ignoring, dismissing, or invalidating someone’s identity. For non-binary people, this often includes being misgendered, left out of gendered language (like “ladies and gentlemen”), or excluded from policy, media, or narratives altogether.
F
Femme: A gender expression that embraces femininity, often used within queer communities. While historically associated with lesbian identity, femme can be claimed by people of any gender—including non-binary folks—who connect with softness, style, or other aspects of feminine energy. Femme is not the same as being a woman.
Feminine-presenting / Feminine-coded: Terms used to describe someone whose appearance, mannerisms, or clothing align with socially constructed ideas of femininity. Being feminine-presenting does not necessarily reflect someone’s gender identity or how they see themselves.
Feminism (Intersectional Feminism): A social, political, and cultural movement advocating for gender equity. Intersectional feminism recognises that people experience oppression in overlapping ways—including through race, class, sexuality, disability, and gender identity—and calls for justice across all of these axes.
Fluid (Genderfluid): Describes someone whose gender identity is not fixed and may change over time or depending on context. A genderfluid person may shift between identities or feel multiple genders at once. This identity lives under the broader non-binary umbrella and embraces motion and flexibility.
FTM / F2M (Female-to-Male): An older term used to describe a trans person assigned female at birth who identifies as male. Still used by some in medical or historical contexts, but many now prefer the phrasing “a trans man” or “assigned female at birth (AFAB)” to better respect individual identity. Avoid using this term unless someone self-identifies with it.
G
Gender: A social and cultural concept that refers to roles, behaviours, identities, and expressions often linked to perceived sex. Gender is not the same as biological sex, and it is not binary. People may identify with a gender different from their sex assigned at birth—or with no gender at all.
Gender-Affirming Care: Medical, psychological, or social support that affirms a person’s gender identity. This can include hormone therapy, surgeries, voice training, name and ID changes, and mental health support. Gender-affirming care is life-saving and essential for many trans and non-binary individuals.
Gender Binary: The belief or system that only two genders exist: male and female. This binary framework is limiting and does not reflect the full range of human gender experiences. Many cultures across the world have long recognised genders beyond the binary.
Gender Dysphoria: Emotional or psychological distress caused by a mismatch between a person’s gender identity and the sex they were assigned at birth or how they’re perceived by others. Not all trans or non-binary people experience dysphoria, but for those who do, it can significantly impact well-being.
Gender Euphoria: The joy, affirmation, or peace experienced when one’s gender identity is acknowledged or expressed authentically. This might come from being called the right name, wearing affirming clothes, or seeing oneself represented. Celebrating euphoria is just as important as addressing dysphoria.
Gender Expression: How someone presents their gender outwardly—through style, clothing, voice, mannerisms, etc. Gender expression can be fluid and may not align with traditional expectations. It’s not always an indication of someone’s identity.
Genderfluid: A gender identity where a person’s sense of gender shifts over time or depending on context. Genderfluid people may feel more masculine, feminine, both, or neither at different times. This is a valid and vibrant part of the non-binary umbrella.
Gender Identity: A deeply held sense of one’s own gender—regardless of societal expectations or sex assigned at birth. Gender identity may align with or differ from assigned sex, and can be binary, non-binary, fluid, or something else entirely.
Genderqueer: A non-normative gender identity that exists outside or in defiance of the binary. Often used as a political or personal reclaiming of gender diversity, genderqueer can be an umbrella term or a standalone identity.
Graysexual / Grayromantic: Identities on the asexual or aromantic spectrum where a person rarely, occasionally, or conditionally experiences sexual or romantic attraction. These terms honour the diversity within ace and aro experiences.
H
Heteronormativity: The assumption that heterosexuality is the default, normal, or superior sexual orientation. Heteronormativity reinforces binary gender roles and often erases or marginalises queer identities. Challenging this assumption is key to creating inclusive spaces.
Heterosexual / Straight: A person who is romantically or sexually attracted to people of the "opposite" gender. In binary terms, this refers to men attracted to women and women attracted to men. This definition becomes more complex in relation to non-binary identities, where "opposite" is not always applicable.
Hijra: A recognised third gender identity in parts of South Asia, particularly India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Hijra people have existed for centuries and often hold cultural, spiritual, and social roles. Hijra identity is culturally specific and should not be conflated with Western concepts of trans or non-binary.
Homophobia: Prejudice, discrimination, or hostility directed toward people who are lesbian, gay, or perceived to be. Homophobia can be overt (e.g., hate speech, violence) or subtle (e.g., assumptions, microaggressions). It often intersects with transphobia and other forms of systemic oppression.
Homoromantic: A person who experiences romantic attraction toward people of the same gender. This term is often used by people on the asexual spectrum to describe their romantic orientation independently of their sexual orientation.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): A medical treatment that uses hormones to align a person’s physical characteristics with their gender identity. Common types include estrogen and testosterone. HRT is an essential form of gender-affirming care for many trans and non-binary people.
I
Identity: A person’s internal sense of self, including gender, sexuality, culture, and lived experience. Gender identity is one part of a broader personal identity, which can include race, ethnicity, class, disability, and more. Identities are personal, valid, and can evolve over time.
Intersectionality: A term coined by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw, describing how different forms of oppression (such as racism, sexism, transphobia, classism, ableism) intersect and compound one another. For non-binary people, intersectionality is vital to understanding how race, class, disability, and more shape gendered experiences.
Intersex: A term for people born with physical sex characteristics (genitalia, chromosomes, hormones) that don’t fit typical definitions of male or female. Intersex people may or may not identify as non-binary or trans, and their identities are as diverse as anyone else’s. Intersex traits are natural and exist across cultures.
In the Closet: A phrase used to describe someone who has not publicly disclosed their gender identity or sexual orientation. People may remain "in the closet" for safety, privacy, cultural reasons, or personal choice. Coming out is not an obligation.
Internalised Transphobia: When trans or non-binary people absorb and direct societal prejudice toward themselves. This can manifest as shame, self-doubt, or fear around one’s own identity. Healing from internalised transphobia involves community, self-acceptance, and unlearning harmful beliefs.
Inclusion: A practice or value that ensures people of all identities feel seen, respected, and valued. Inclusion goes beyond tolerance; it requires structural change and active efforts to remove barriers—especially for marginalised groups like trans and non-binary people.
J
Judith Butler: A philosopher and gender theorist whose work, particularly Gender Trouble (1990), introduced the idea that gender is performative—not something we are, but something we do. Butler’s work is foundational in queer theory and challenges binary understandings of gender.
Joy (Queer or Gender Joy): The celebration of one’s identity, presence, and expression—especially in defiance of systems that try to erase or diminish us. Queer and gender joy is radical because it affirms that we deserve not just survival, but thriving, love, and community.
Juxera: A gender identity often associated with femininity but not as a woman or female. Typically used by AFAB (assigned female at birth) individuals who feel a connection to a feminine experience that’s distinct from being a girl or woman. Part of some microlabel frameworks within non-binary identity.
Judgement-Free Space: A term used to describe environments that prioritise respect, listening, and affirmation. For many trans and non-binary people, judgment-free spaces are critical for self-expression, healing, and authentic community engagement.
K
Kawaii Gender: A niche gender identity or aesthetic within gender-nonconforming and online spaces, inspired by the Japanese word kawaii (meaning “cute”). Often associated with soft, playful, or childlike expressions of femininity or androgyny. While rooted in internet and alt cultures, it holds meaning for some non-binary and xenogender individuals.
Khanith: A recognised third-gender category in parts of Oman, particularly in traditional Swahili and Arab cultures. Khanith people often occupy a unique social role and dress in ways that blend masculine and feminine norms. Like Hijra or Fa’afafine, Khanith is culturally specific and shouldn’t be flattened into Western categories like “non-binary” or “trans.”
Kinsey Scale: A historic model of sexual orientation created by Alfred Kinsey in the 1940s. It ranges from 0 (exclusively heterosexual) to 6 (exclusively homosexual), with degrees of bisexuality or pansexuality in between. While outdated by today’s standards of fluidity, it was one of the first tools to publicly challenge rigid sexuality binaries.
Kink (in Queer Contexts): Refers to consensual sexual or intimacy practices that fall outside societal norms. For many queer and trans people, kink is a space of agency, power reclamation, and gender exploration. Kink should never be conflated with identity but can overlap with personal empowerment and community building.
L
LGBTQIA+: An inclusive acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or Questioning), Intersex, Asexual (or Aromantic/Agender), and others. The plus (+) acknowledges the full diversity of gender identities, sexual orientations, and expressions beyond the core letters.
Lesbian: A woman or non-binary person who is primarily romantically or sexually attracted to women or other non-men. Some non-binary people also identify as lesbians, especially when they feel connection to lesbian culture, history, or queer femininity.
Label: A word or set of words someone uses to describe their gender, sexuality, or experience. Labels can offer clarity, affirmation, or community—but not everyone uses them, and no one is obligated to. Labels can change as someone’s understanding of themself evolves.
Latinx / Latine: Gender-inclusive alternatives to Latino/Latina, used by some people of Latin American descent. Latinx emerged in U.S. queer and academic spaces, while Latine aligns more naturally with Spanish grammar. Use the term an individual prefers when referring to their identity.
Legal Recognition (of Gender): The process of having one's gender identity accurately reflected in legal documents such as ID cards, passports, or birth certificates. Access to legal recognition can vary dramatically by country or region and may or may not include options beyond the binary.
Living Authentically: A phrase often used to describe expressing one's true gender identity, sexuality, or self in the face of social pressure. For many non-binary people, “living authentically” can be both an act of joy and resistance.
M
Misgendering: Referring to someone using incorrect pronouns, names, or gendered language that doesn’t align with their identity. Misgendering can be unintentional or deliberate and often causes harm, invalidation, and distress. Correcting mistakes and committing to respect is key to affirming someone’s gender.
Mx. (pronounced “Mix”): A gender-neutral honorific used in place of Mr., Ms., or Mrs. Mx. is often chosen by non-binary, genderqueer, or agender individuals. It’s increasingly recognised in institutions and legal forms as a valid and affirming title.
Medical Transition: Any gender-affirming medical care a person may pursue to align their body with their gender identity. This might include hormone replacement therapy (HRT), surgeries, or other treatments. Not all trans or non-binary people choose or have access to medical transition, and all forms of transition are valid.
Microaggression: Subtle, often unintentional behaviours or comments that reinforce stereotypes or discrimination. For non-binary people, this might look like “It’s just so hard to remember they/them” or assuming gender based on appearance. Microaggressions can accumulate and deeply impact mental health.
Masculine-presenting / Masculine-coded: Describes someone whose gender expression includes traits culturally associated with masculinity. This has no bearing on someone’s actual gender identity. Many non-binary people are masculine-presenting while not identifying as men.
Misogyny: Hatred, devaluation, or systemic oppression of women and those perceived as feminine. Misogyny also affects many non-binary people, particularly those who are AFAB (assigned female at birth) or femme-presenting. It overlaps with transmisogyny in specific ways for trans femmes and non-binary femmes.
Multigender: An umbrella term for people who identify with more than one gender—either simultaneously or at different times. Includes identities such as bigender, trigender, and polygender. Everyone’s multigender experience is unique.
N
Neopronouns: A category of gender-neutral pronouns created to better reflect diverse gender identities beyond traditional options like “they/them.” Examples include xe/xem, ze/hir, ey/em, and others. Not everyone uses or understands them yet, but for many people, they offer essential gender affirmation.
Non-Binary: An umbrella term for gender identities that exist outside the male/female binary. Non-binary people may identify as a mix of genders, no gender, shifting genders, or a gender entirely their own. Non-binary is valid, real, and diverse. Some non-binary people also identify as trans, while others do not.
Name Change (Chosen Name): The act of adopting a name that aligns with one's gender identity, often in place of a birth name. This may or may not be legally changed. Using someone's chosen name is an act of respect and affirmation.
Neutral Pronouns: Pronouns that are not gendered—used by many non-binary and gender-diverse individuals. The most common in English is they/them, though neopronouns also fall into this category. Neutral pronouns are grammatically correct and widely accepted.
Neutrois: A non-binary gender identity often associated with neutrality, null gender, or genderlessness. Some neutrois people seek a more androgynous or minimised presentation, but others may express themselves differently. Definitions of neutrois can vary widely from person to person.
Neurodivergent (ND): A term describing people whose brains process information differently, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. There’s a strong overlap between queer and neurodivergent communities, and many non-binary people identify as ND. The term affirms diversity in cognition and experience.
O
Out / Coming Out: To be “out” means being open about one’s gender identity or sexual orientation. Coming out is the process of sharing this part of yourself with others. It can happen gradually or repeatedly, and it's deeply personal—no one is ever obligated to come out unless it feels safe and affirming.
Outing: The act of revealing someone’s LGBTQIA+ identity without their consent. Outing can be harmful, dangerous, and a violation of trust, especially in environments where queer or trans people may face discrimination or violence. Always let people share their identity on their own terms.
Oppression: A systemic and institutionalised mistreatment or disadvantage faced by marginalised groups. For non-binary and trans people, oppression can include legal barriers, misrepresentation, healthcare denial, violence, and erasure. Oppression often intersects with racism, ableism, classism, and other systems of inequality.
Othering: The process of viewing or treating someone as fundamentally different or alien, often leading to exclusion or marginalisation. Non-binary people are frequently “othered” in media, policy, and public discourse, which contributes to social isolation and invisibility.
Orientation (Sexual/Romantic Orientation): Describes who a person is emotionally, romantically, and/or sexually attracted to. Examples include gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, aromantic, and more. Orientation is separate from gender identity—non-binary people can have any orientation.
P
Pansexual / Panromantic: Describes someone who is attracted to people regardless of gender. Pansexuality affirms that gender is not a determining factor in romantic or sexual attraction. Panromantic refers specifically to romantic attraction across all gender identities.
Passing: When a trans or non-binary person is perceived by others as their gender identity. While “passing” can offer safety and affirmation, it also reinforces binary norms. Some non-binary people have complicated feelings about this term, as it can imply that some genders are more “real” than others.
Patriarchy: A social system that privileges masculinity, male power, and rigid gender roles. Patriarchy harms everyone, but disproportionately affects women, femmes, trans, and non-binary people by reinforcing gender inequality, binaries, and violence.
Pronouns: Words used to refer to someone in place of their name, such as they/them, she/her, he/him, or neopronouns like xe/xem. Using someone’s correct pronouns is a basic form of respect and gender affirmation. If you’re unsure, it’s okay to ask respectfully or use gender-neutral language until clarified.
Privilege: Unearned advantages granted to people based on their social position (e.g., cisgender, white, able-bodied). Privilege doesn’t mean someone hasn’t struggled—it means they haven’t struggled because of certain aspects of their identity. Recognising privilege is key to allyship.
Pride: A celebration and affirmation of LGBTQIA+ identities, history, resistance, and joy. Pride is both a protest and a party—a reminder that queer and trans people deserve to exist fully, safely, and visibly. Pride Month (June in many countries) commemorates the Stonewall uprising of 1969.
Q
Queer: A reclaimed umbrella term for people whose gender identity or sexual orientation falls outside of societal norms. For many, “queer” signifies fluidity, resistance, and pride. While it was historically used as a slur, it’s been powerfully reclaimed by many LGBTQIA+ people—though not everyone is comfortable with it. Always respect individual preferences.
Questioning: Describes someone who is exploring or unsure about their gender identity and/or sexual orientation. Questioning is a valid and often ongoing process. It's okay not to have all the answers—identity is personal, evolving, and doesn't need to be rushed.
Queerplatonic Relationship (QPR): A deeply intimate and committed relationship that doesn't follow traditional romantic or sexual norms. QPRs often exist outside of the friendship/romantic binary and are especially important within asexual and aromantic communities. They centre trust, partnership, and chosen connection.
Queermisia (Queerphobia): Systemic and interpersonal hatred or bias toward queer people. A broader term than “homophobia,” queermisia includes all forms of anti-LGBTQIA+ prejudice, including against non-binary and gender-diverse individuals. Also known as queerphobia.
R
Representation: The presence of people from marginalised communities in media, politics, leadership, education, and beyond. For non-binary folks, authentic representation means being seen not just as side characters or metaphors, but as full, complex people. Visibility matters—but it must also be respectful, nuanced, and intersectional.
Romantic Orientation: Describes who a person is romantically attracted to, which may differ from sexual orientation. Common identities include aromantic, homoromantic, biromantic, panromantic, and more. Non-binary people may identify with any romantic orientation.
Respect: A foundational value in inclusive communities. Respect includes using correct pronouns, listening to people’s lived experiences, and not questioning or doubting someone's identity. It also means respecting boundaries, names, privacy, and personal language choices.
Restroom Access: A common issue for trans and non-binary people, who may face harassment, anxiety, or lack of safe options when using gendered bathrooms. Advocating for all-gender restrooms and clear access policies is essential for safety and inclusion.
Reclaiming: The act of taking back language or identity once used to harm. “Queer,” for example, has been reclaimed by many LGBTQIA+ people as a term of pride and empowerment. Reclaiming is personal—not every reclaimed word feels safe or empowering to everyone.
Romantic Misalignment: When one’s romantic orientation doesn’t align with others’ assumptions—often experienced by asexual and aromantic people. For non-binary folks, misalignment can also happen when others assume romantic roles or dynamics based on gender presentation.
S
Sex Assigned at Birth (SAAB): The classification (usually as “male” or “female”) given to a person at birth based on external anatomy. This is a medical and legal designation—not an indicator of gender identity. Many trans and non-binary people experience tension or dysphoria around their assigned sex.
Sexual Orientation: Describes a person’s pattern of romantic or sexual attraction to others. Examples include gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, and more. It’s distinct from gender identity—non-binary people can have any sexual orientation.
She/They / He/They (Mixed Pronouns): Describes someone who uses multiple sets of pronouns (e.g., she/her and they/them). This can signal gender fluidity, personal preference, or a comfort with different forms of gender expression. Always respect the full set someone uses.
Spectrum (Gender or Sexuality Spectrum): The idea that identity is not binary or fixed, but fluid and wide-ranging. Gender and sexuality exist along a spectrum, not in discrete categories. The spectrum framework affirms the complexity of human experience.
Social Dysphoria: A type of gender dysphoria related to how someone is perceived or treated socially—such as being misgendered, called the wrong name, or excluded from gendered spaces. It may or may not accompany physical dysphoria.
Stealth: Describes a trans or non-binary person who lives publicly without disclosing their gender history or assigned sex at birth. Some people go stealth for safety, privacy, or comfort. It’s a valid choice—not a denial of identity.
Stonewall: Refers to the 1969 uprising at the Stonewall Inn in New York City, led by queer and trans people of colour, including Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera. It’s often marked as the catalyst for the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement. Pride events in many countries honour this legacy.
Support: A key element in non-binary wellbeing. Support includes being affirmed, respected, believed, and celebrated. It can come from chosen family, friends, therapists, educators, coworkers, or community members—and it often makes all the difference.
T
Trans / Transgender: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Some non-binary people identify as trans, while others do not—it's a personal relationship to the term. Being trans is about identity, not medical steps or appearance.
Transfeminine: Describes someone who was assigned male at birth and identifies with femininity to any degree. Transfeminine people may identify as women, non-binary, or with other feminine-aligned genders. Expression and identity can vary widely.
Transmasculine: Describes someone who was assigned female at birth and identifies with masculinity to any degree. Transmasculine people may identify as men, non-binary, or with other masculine-aligned identities. Not all transmasc people transition medically or socially.
Transition: The process of aligning one's lived experience with their gender identity. This may be social (changing name, pronouns, presentation), medical (hormones, surgery), or legal (updating ID). Not all trans or non-binary people transition, and every path is valid.
Transmisogyny: A specific form of discrimination targeting trans women and transfeminine people. It combines transphobia with misogyny and often includes hypervisibility, violence, and dehumanisation. The term was coined by Julia Serano to name the unique oppression faced by transfeminine individuals.
Two-Spirit (2S): A pan-Indigenous term used by some First Nations, Métis, and Native American people to describe a gender or spiritual identity that encompasses both masculine and feminine traits. Two-Spirit is a sacred, culturally specific identity—not interchangeable with “non-binary” or “LGBTQ+.” Use only with respect and cultural awareness.
They/Them Pronouns: A set of gender-neutral pronouns used by many non-binary people, as well as some binary trans people and cis allies. “They” has been used as a singular pronoun in English for centuries and is grammatically correct.
U
Umbrella Term: A word or phrase that encompasses a range of related identities, experiences, or expressions. Non-binary is an umbrella term for many gender identities outside the male/female binary, just as queer or trans can be umbrella terms for broader spectrums.
Unlearning: The active process of recognising and letting go of harmful beliefs, assumptions, or behaviours—often instilled by societal norms, colonial systems, or cisheteronormativity. Unlearning is essential to becoming a better ally and building more inclusive communities.
Uplifting: Affirming, celebrating, and amplifying the voices, experiences, and identities of marginalised people. In LGBTQIA+ contexts, uplifting non-binary and trans voices means centring our stories, respecting lived experience, and refusing erasure.
Underrepresented: Describes a group or identity that is not sufficiently included or reflected in institutions, media, policy, or leadership. Non-binary people are often underrepresented in healthcare, politics, research, and media—not because we don’t exist, but because systems haven't made room for us.
Undocumented Queerness: Refers to queer and trans identities and histories that have been erased, ignored, or never recorded—often due to colonisation, racism, ableism, or social repression. Many non-Western gender identities fall into this category, and efforts to reclaim them are acts of resistance and survival.
V
Validation: The act of recognising, affirming, and respecting someone’s identity, experience, or truth. For non-binary people, validation can come through correct pronouns, inclusive policies, being seen in media, or simply being believed. Everyone deserves validation without needing to prove their identity.
Visibility: Being seen and recognised as who you are—whether in media, public life, institutions, or everyday interactions. Non-binary visibility is vital for challenging norms, building community, and inspiring others—but it can also come with risks. Visibility should always be a choice, not a demand.
Vulnerability: The courageous act of expressing one's truth, needs, or identity—even when it feels risky. Many non-binary people face vulnerability when coming out, navigating gendered systems, or advocating for themselves. Vulnerability is strength, not weakness.
Voice Training: A form of gender-affirming care some trans and non-binary people pursue to align their voice with their gender identity. It may involve working with a speech therapist or coach and is completely optional—no one is obligated to change their voice to be valid.
Vicarious Trauma: Emotional distress that can result from witnessing or hearing about others’ traumatic experiences—common for activists, carers, and community members who support marginalised groups. Non-binary advocates may experience this when constantly educating or witnessing systemic harm.
W
Womxn: A spelling used by some to explicitly include trans women, non-binary femmes, and women of colour. It aims to challenge traditional patriarchal language, though its use is debated—some feel it unnecessarily separates trans women from women. Always defer to personal and community preferences.
White Cisnormativity: A dominant societal norm that centres whiteness and cisgender identities as the default. This framing often erases the lived realities of BIPOC and trans/non-binary people. Recognising and disrupting white cisnormativity is essential to intersectional justice.
WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health): An international organisation that develops standards of care for transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse people. WPATH guidelines influence access to gender-affirming healthcare globally and are often cited in medical and legal contexts.
Witch / Queer Witchcraft: Witchcraft has been reclaimed by many LGBTQIA+ people—particularly femmes and non-binary folks—as a form of empowerment, spiritual resistance, and identity. Queer witchcraft often blends ritual, community care, ancestral work, and decolonial spirituality.
Workplace Inclusion: Creating environments where people of all genders, backgrounds, and identities are respected, supported, and able to thrive. For non-binary employees, this means access to correct pronouns, inclusive policies, affirming dress codes, and safety from harassment.
X
X Gender: A gender category officially recognised in Japan for individuals who do not identify strictly as male or female. While not necessarily equivalent to non-binary in Western contexts, X Gender reflects culturally specific experiences of gender variance.
X Marker: A gender-neutral option on identification documents (such as passports or driver’s licences) used in place of “M” or “F.” The X marker recognises people outside the binary and is an important step toward legal gender inclusion. Availability varies by country and region.
Xenogender: A non-binary gender identity that is defined outside of traditional human gender constructs—often connected to metaphors, experiences, or abstract concepts (e.g., stargender, faunagender). Xenogenders can be deeply meaningful and are often used by neurodivergent individuals.
Y
You Do You: A common affirmation in queer and trans communities that encourages self-expression, autonomy, and authenticity. “You do you” reminds us that there is no one way to be non-binary, queer, or human—and that personal truth matters more than conformity.
Youth-Led: Describes movements, organisations, or initiatives driven by young people. Many of the most transformative queer and trans advocacy efforts are youth-led, with non-binary and gender-diverse youth at the forefront of social, cultural, and policy change.
Yin / Yang (in Gender Discourse): Concepts from Taoist philosophy often (but not always accurately) used in Western discussions of gender balance or fluidity. While some find personal meaning in these ideas, it’s important to avoid appropriating cultural or spiritual frameworks without context or care.
Z
Ze/Zir Pronouns: A set of gender-neutral pronouns used by some non-binary, genderqueer, or gender-nonconforming individuals. Example: Ze laughed. I called zir. That is zirs. These pronouns offer an alternative to “they/them” and affirm diverse expressions of identity.
Ze/Hir Pronouns: Another common neopronoun set similar to ze/zir. Example: Ze went to the store. I spoke to hir. That book is hirs. As with all pronouns, respect and consistent use are essential. Always follow a person’s stated pronouns, whether traditional or neopronouns.
Zine: A small, self-published booklet often used in queer, punk, and radical communities to share personal stories, art, identity, and resistance. Zines are a cornerstone of non-mainstream LGBTQIA+ culture—accessible, DIY, and deeply expressive.
Glossary Notes & Invitation
This glossary was created to support understanding, affirmation, and inclusion across the wide spectrum of gender identities and queer experiences. We know language is always evolving—and so is this glossary.
These definitions reflect widely used understandings within queer and trans communities, but are not universal. Everyone experiences their identity in a personal way, and no single definition can capture every nuance. Our goal is to inform, not to define anyone else's truth.
Feedback & Contributions
If you see a definition that could be improved, notice a missing term, or want to share how a word resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you. This is a living resource, shaped by community voices.
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👉 Want to see how these terms show up in real life? Check out our blog posts where we explore identity in action.
Thank you for showing up, learning, and helping build a more inclusive world—word by word.