intersexual
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌɪn.təˈsɛk.ʃəl/
KK: /ɪnˈtɜr.sɛk.ʃəl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to individuals or characteristics that exist between male and female, often referring to those who have both male and female physical traits or reproductive organs.
Example
The intersexual individual faced unique challenges in a society that often only recognizes two genders.
Conversation
Did you read about the new documentary on intersexual individuals?
No, I haven't seen it yet. What's it about?
It explores how intersexual people navigate their identities in society.
That sounds fascinating! I’d love to check it out.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bisexual
hermaphroditic
androgynous
Antonyms
unisex
male
female
noun
Definition
A person who has physical characteristics of both male and female sexes, often in terms of reproductive or sexual anatomy.
Example
The intersexual individual faced challenges in a society that often only recognizes two genders.
Conversation
I was reading about different identities, and I came across the term intersexual.
Oh really? I think that's an important topic to understand.
Yeah, I didn't realize how many people identify as intersexual until recently.
Root Explanation
Intersexual → It is formed from "inter-" (meaning between) and "sexus" (meaning sex or gender). The word describes individuals whose physical sex characteristics do not fit typical binary notions of male or female, existing in a state 'between' these categories.
Memory Tip
Think of 'between' ('inter-') and 'sex' ('sexus') to remember that intersexual refers to individuals who exist between traditional male and female classifications.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.