noun

intersexuality

in-tuh-sek-shoo-AL-uh-tee

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Intersexuality (noun) means a condition in which someone's body shows a mix of male and female traits, so their sex cannot be classed straightforwardly as one or the other. Example: “Doctors discussed intersexuality with the family in careful, plain terms.”

noun

A condition in which someone's body shows a mix of male and female traits, so their sex cannot be classed straightforwardly as one or the other.

"Doctors discussed intersexuality with the family in careful, plain terms."

"The charity offers support to people living with intersexuality."

"Awareness of intersexuality has grown as more people have spoken openly about it."

How to use intersexuality

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishIntersexuality means having a body that does not fit neatly into typical male or female categories.

When to use it

It is a neutral, clinical-sounding word suited to formal or medical contexts.

Memory tip

Remember inter- means between, so the word points to a state between the usual sexes.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

bisexuality → transsexuality →

Common pairings

living with intersexuality cases of intersexuality awareness of intersexuality

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “intersexuality” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

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Doctors discussed _____ with the family in careful, plain terms.

Etymology

Intersexuality is formed from the prefix inter-, meaning between, added to sexuality. The word describes a condition that falls between the usual categories of male and female.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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intersex

Related words

intersex gynandromorph androgyne hermaphrodite unisex

Rhymes for intersexuality

city deity acuity parity brevity opacity paucity ability quality reality annuity gravity

See all rhymes for intersexuality →

Frequently asked questions

What does intersexuality mean?

It refers to having physical sex characteristics that are not clearly male or female, or that combine features of both.

Is intersexuality the same as intersex?

Intersex is used as a synonym, describing the same condition in a shorter form.

Is intersexuality a medical or a social term?

It is a clinical term, used mainly in medical and formal settings, and functions as a synonym of intersex.

What is the meaning of intersexuality?

"intersexuality" (noun) means a condition in which someone's body shows a mix of male and female traits, so their sex cannot be classed straightforwardly as one or the other.

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intersex gynandromorph androgyne hermaphrodite unisex