Cis

Part of Speech

Adjective, Preposition

Pronunciation

/sɪs/

Definitions

• Relating to individuals whose gender identity corresponds to the sex they were assigned at birth (commonly used in the context of gender identity, e.g., cisgender).
• In chemistry, referring to a molecular configuration where two substituents are on the same side of a double bond or ring structure.
• A Latin preposition meaning "on this side of" or "near," used in geographical contexts to describe the location of something relative to a reference point.

Usage Examples

• She is cisgender, meaning her gender identity aligns with the sex she was assigned at birth.
• The cis configuration of the molecule allows for specific interactions with other molecules.
• The river marks the cis boundary between the two regions.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "cis," meaning "on this side of" or "near." The term "cisgender" was coined in the late 20th century to describe individuals whose gender identity aligns with their assigned sex at birth, as opposed to "transgender." The term in chemistry has its roots in the 19th century as a descriptor for molecular structures.

Synonyms

• Cisgender (when used in a gender identity context)
• Same-side (in chemistry)

Antonyms

• Transgender (in gender identity)
• Trans (in chemistry)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /sɪs/
• American English: /sɪs/
• Spanish: /sisˈxenɛɾo/
• French: /sisʒɑ̃ʁ/

Historical Usage

The term "cisgender" became prominent in the late 20th century to differentiate individuals whose gender identity matched their assigned sex at birth from those who identify as transgender. In chemistry, the term has been used since the 19th century to describe molecules with substituents on the same side of a bond.

Cultural Nuances

The term "cis" is central to discussions around gender identity, particularly in the context of LGBTQ+ rights. It highlights the experiences of individuals whose gender identity aligns with their biological sex, a group that often remains invisible in mainstream gender discourse. In some communities, the term has been embraced to increase awareness of non-cisgender experiences, emphasizing that "cis" is just as valid a gender identity as "trans." The word is also used in scientific contexts, specifically chemistry, where it signifies a type of molecular structure.

More Information

Cisgender individuals may face a variety of societal expectations and privileges due to their alignment with the sex they were assigned at birth. These privileges can affect their experience in social, legal, and medical contexts. The term "cisgender" helps clarify conversations about gender by distinguishing those whose gender identity and assigned sex match from those who identify as transgender or non-binary. In chemistry, cis refers to molecular configurations that differ from trans configurations, and these distinctions have important implications in both scientific study and applied fields like pharmaceuticals and materials science.