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Definition of transvestism

transvestism

/trænzˈvɛstɪzəm/
trans · vest · is · m
Adjective:transvestite
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transvestism Lexical Profile

transvestism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The practice of wearing clothes traditionally or stereotypically associated with a different gender.

Example

"The historical study examined how theatrical transvestism was a standard convention on the Elizabethan stage."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for transvestism

Word Nuance & Usage

In contemporary usage, 'transvestism' is primarily confined to clinical or historical contexts and can be perceived as outdated or pathologizing when applied to individuals; 'cross-dressing' is the preferred neutral term in everyday language.

• Nearby Words

transshipment
transverse
transversely
transvestism
transvestite
transwoman
trap

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1910 by the German sexologist Magnus Hirschfeld as 'Transvestitismus', from Latin 'trans-' (across) and 'vestire' (to clothe).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Transvestism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/transvestism
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