Cisgender

A cisgender (or cis) person is someone whose gender aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. The opposite of cisgender is transgender. On FetLife profiles, this is often abbreviated to cis. Cissexual (cissex) is sometimes used as a synonym for cisgender, though it is less common today. In some contexts, it may refer more specifically to someone whose sex characteristics align with the sex they were assigned at birth. These terms are not always used consistently. Their use can vary depending on context or personal identification. ### Origins of the Term The word cis is not slang. It comes from a Latin prefix meaning “on this side,” while trans means “on the other side of.” Using both terms helps avoid treating one experience as the default. For example: - Cis/Trans - Straight/Gay - Neurotypical/Neurodivergent - Perisex/Intersex These pairs describe different experiences, not “normal” versus “other.” Being cisgender does not make someone a more “authentic” or “real” example of their gender. Cis and trans people may have different experiences, but neither is more valid than the other. ### Notes on Usage Not everyone identifies with the term cis, and people may have different preferences for how they describe their gender or body. In general, it’s best to: - Use the terms people choose for themselves - Avoid assumptions about someone’s gender or experience. - Recognize that cis and trans people are equally valid expressions of gender.