sex change

American  

[seks cheynj] / ˈsɛks ˌtʃeɪndʒ /

noun

1. (no longer in common use; now often considered offensive) See sex reassignment surgery.

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sex change British  

noun

1. 1. a change in a person's physical sexual characteristics to those of the opposite sex, often achieved by surgery

   2. ( as modifier )

      a sex-change operation

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Sensitive Note

See sex reassignment surgery.

Etymology

Origin of sex change

First recorded in 1920–25 (in reference to hermaphrodite organisms that can change their sex); 1960–65 for current sense

Example Sentences

Its findings are among the strongest yet that sex change treatments don’t help—and are more likely to hurt—these vulnerable young patients.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

Since at least 1998, the county's plan has excluded coverage for "services and supplies for a sex change," an outdated term to refer to surgeries or medications related to gender transition.

From Salon • Mar. 20, 2023

But the county health plan had excluded sex change surgery and drugs since 1998.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 11, 2022

Kambugu underwent hormonal therapy and sex change surgery in Thailand in 2015 and has since obtained a Ugandan passport and identity document that state her gender as female.

From Reuters • Nov. 18, 2021

“The sex change in this species is remarkable because it’s so quick,” Todd said.

From Washington Post • Jul. 10, 2019