What is cisgender?

The term cisgender describes a person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, if someone is born with male anatomy and grows up identifying as a man, they are considered cisgender. Similarly, a person born with female anatomy who identifies as a woman is also cisgender. This concept stands in contrast to being transgender, where a person’s gender identity does not match their assigned sex.

Understanding the meaning of cisgender

At birth, most people are labeled either male or female based on physical characteristics. This label is called the assigned sex at birth. For many people, this label fits with how they see themselves as they grow up. If you feel that this label fits you, you are likely cisgender. Understanding the meaning of cisgender is helpful when exploring the full spectrum of gender identity.

It’s important to note that being cisgender is not always obvious from the outside. Just like sexual orientation isn’t visible, neither is gender identity. Not all girls wear dresses, and not all boys play sports. A cisgender girl might dress in a more “tomboyish” way, and a cisgender boy might enjoy makeup or fashion. These expressions don’t necessarily mean someone is transgender — they’re simply examples of how diverse personal expression can be.

Cisgender vs transgender

The word “cisgender” comes from the Latin prefix “cis,” meaning “on this side.” In contrast, “trans” means “across” or “beyond.” A cisgender person stays on the same side of the gender assigned at birth, while a transgender person moves beyond or away from that initial assignment. Both terms describe where someone stands in relation to the assigned gender, not their personality, sexuality, or values.

Some people feel they don’t clearly fit into either category. While many people are either cis or trans, others may identify differently — or prefer not to label themselves at all. It’s important to recognize that gender is a personal experience and that language should help express, not restrict, that experience.

Cisgender and non-binary identities

Non-binary people do not identify strictly as male or female. Their gender may fall somewhere in between, change over time, or exist outside the traditional binary altogether. Most non-binary individuals do not consider themselves cisgender, since their gender identity does not fully match their assigned sex.

However, not all non-binary people identify as transgender either. Some do, and some don’t. Gender is deeply personal, and labels like cisgender, transgender, and non-binary exist to help people describe their experiences — not to box them in.

Why understanding cisgender matters

Understanding what cisgender means is key to appreciating gender diversity. For cisgender people, gender may feel simple or unproblematic — but for others, it can be a complex journey. Learning the difference between cisgender and transgender can help create empathy and support for those whose gender identity may not match societal expectations.

Using accurate language and showing respect for everyone’s gender identity helps create a more inclusive world. Whether you are cisgender or not, understanding these terms helps challenge stereotypes and foster acceptance.

In short

• Cisgender means your gender identity matches your assigned sex at birth.
• Cis is the opposite of transgender.
• Cisgender people can express themselves in many different ways and still identify as cisgender.
• Non-binary people are usually not considered cisgender, but not all identify as transgender either.
• Understanding cisgender helps us talk about gender with more clarity and respect.

Discover your gender