androgyny
UK[ænˈdrɒdʒəni]US[ænˈdrɑːdʒəni]
n
The state or condition of having both male and female characteristics, or of being neither specifically male nor female.
Morpheme Breakdown
andro
gyny
andro
male
gyny
female
Etymology
The term 'androgyny' is a modern English formation built directly from classical Greek components. It combines andro-, derived from the Greek word for a man (anēr), and -gyny, from the Greek word for a woman (gynē). Literally, it means "male-female-ness". The concept originates in ancient mythology and philosophy, describing a primordial unity or a being possessing attributes of both sexes. In contemporary usage, this literal combination evolved to describe the abstract condition or appearance of blending, mixing, or transcending distinct masculine and feminine qualities.
Analysis
Structure: andro (male) + gyny (female)
- andro: From Greek andr- (stem of anēr), meaning "man, male". Functions as a combining form indicating maleness.
- gyny: From Greek gynē, meaning "woman, female". Functions as a combining form indicating femaleness.
Examples
The fashion designer's latest collection explores themes of androgyny through tailored silhouettes.
Some plant species exhibit androgyny, with flowers containing both stamens and pistils.
The actor's androgyny allowed them to portray a wide range of characters convincingly.