What Does Cis Stand For?

Cis, often referred to as cisgender or cissexual, is an umbrella term used to describe someone whose gender and identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. The prefix “cis” is derived from the Latin word meaning “on the same side” and denotes a relationship of position or orientation along the same axis. The opposite of cis is transgender, which refers to a person whose gender identity and/or gender expression differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.

The Origin of the Term

The term cisgender was originally coined by Dr. Carl Buijs in 1995. Dr. Buijs was a Dutch-Canadian academic and psychotherapist, who began using the term in clinical contexts to refer to non-transgender individuals. The term soon became more widely accepted and used broadly among the LGBTQ+ community, eventually entering the public discourse in the early 2000s.

Understanding the Meaning of Cis

The term cisgender conveys an understanding of gender identity that acknowledges the diversity of gender experiences. It’s important to recognize that being cisgender is not the same as being “normal”. Cisgender simply means that someone’s gender identity and/or gender expression aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.

It’s also important to recognize that being cisgender doesn’t necessarily come with privilege. Cis people face struggles, discrimination, and oppression, often in addition to any other identities they may hold. By emphasizing commonality and understanding, the term cis expresses an understanding of identity that views all experiences as valid, regardless of whether they conform to traditional gender norms.

In conclusion, the term cisgender is an umbrella term used to refer to a person whose gender identity and/or gender expression aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. The term was originally coined by Dr. Carl Buijs in 1995 and has since become more widely accepted in the public discourse. Cisgender acknowledges the diverse range of gender identities and emphasizes understanding and acceptance of all gender experiences.