gender binary

American  

[jen-der bahy-nuh-ree, ‐ner-ee] / ˈdʒɛn dər ˌbaɪ nə ri, ‐nɛr i /

noun

1. a classification system consisting of two genders, male and female.

2. a concept or belief that there are only two genders and that one's sex or gender assigned at birth will align with traditional social constructs of masculine and feminine identity, expression, and sexuality. ​

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Etymology

Origin of gender binary

First recorded in 1980–90

Example Sentences

“It’s something that’s been literally stamped out over the course of the Western gender binary that emerged from the Victorian era.”

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 5, 2025

"And certainly in the circles that I've been in... there is more acceptance and openness, and people are more comfortable expressing themselves in things outside the gender binary."

From BBC • Nov. 15, 2024

These performers reject strict adherence to sex assigned at birth, mocking the very existence of a gender binary.

From Slate • Sep. 22, 2023

Even as cis people, the couple has been long known for challenging the gender binary in fashion.

From Salon • Sep. 21, 2023

While efforts to challenge the gender binary are evident in how we talk, dress for work and wear makeup, a visit to the cocktail bar might transport you back to the 1950s.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 3, 2023