gender-bending

American

[jen-der bend-ing] / ˈdʒɛn dər ˌbɛnd ɪŋ /

adjective

of or relating to someone or something that challenges traditional societal norms related to gender.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Delighting in the performance and applauding from the floor pit are gender-bending members of the new bohemia, alongside champagne-sipping deputies in tuxedos of the Berlin elite.

From Salon • Oct. 4, 2025

In 2018, L.A. choreographer Benjamin Millepied created a site-specific gender-bending version of Prokofiev’s ballet with his L.A.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 25, 2024

According to the center, this isn’t the first year Macy’s has featured gender-bending performers: In 2021, transgender pop star Kim Petras rode on a parade float.

From Washington Times • Nov. 16, 2023

In “Dracula, a Comedy of Terrors,” a gender-bending play at New World Stages, Dr. Van Helsing calls for a “shtick” to slay her greatest foe.

From New York Times • Sep. 24, 2023

During the eighth year of this gender-bending Seattle festival, hosts Tito Bonito and Shelly Watson will facilitate a night of burlesque, drag, variety and circus performers on stage at The Triple Door.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 30, 2023

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023