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noun

transvestite

tranz-VEHS-tyt

Transvestite (noun) means a person who wears clothing typically associated with a different gender. Example: “The novel's main character is a transvestite who performs in an underground cabaret.”

noun
1
A person who wears clothing typically associated with a different gender.
"The novel's main character is a transvestite who performs in an underground cabaret."

How to use transvestite

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomeone who wears clothes usually associated with another gender.

When to use it

Considered outdated or clinical by many; "cross-dresser" is now the more common and neutral term in everyday use.

Easily confused with
cross-dresser

Word forms

transvestites plural

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The novel's main character is a _____ who performs in an underground cabaret.

Etymology

From German Transvestitismus, coined in 1910 by Magnus Hirschfeld from Latin trans- ("across") and vestire ("to dress"); literally "cross-dresser."

Origin: Latin · First attested 1910

Class of 1910 transvestite joined the language around 1910.
See the full Class of 1910 →
cross-dresser

Rhymes for transvestite

See all rhymes for transvestite →

Frequently asked questions

What does “transvestite” mean?

The word “transvestite” means a person who wears clothing typically associated with a different gender. In plain terms, someone who wears clothes usually associated with another gender.

How do you pronounce “transvestite”?

“Transvestite” is pronounced tranz-VEHS-tyt (/tɹænzˈvɛs.taɪt/ in IPA).

How do you use “transvestite” in a sentence?

Here is “transvestite” used in a sentence: “The novel's main character is a transvestite who performs in an underground cabaret.”

What part of speech is “transvestite”?

“Transvestite” is a noun.

Where does the word “transvestite” come from?

The word “transvestite” dates back to around 1910 and comes from Latin. From German Transvestitismus, coined in 1910 by Magnus Hirschfeld from Latin trans- ("across") and vestire ("to dress"); literally "cross-dresser.".

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial