Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

epicene

Adjective
/ˈɛp.ɪ.siːn/
Definition
Of or relating to a word having two genders or to a person or thing that is not identifiable as male or female.
Examples
  • In many languages, certain nouns are epicene, meaning they can refer to both genders.
  • The epicene nature of the character allowed readers to interpret their identity in multiple ways.
Meaning
The term ‘epicene’ can refer to words in language that are neutral regarding gender or to someone whose characteristics are not distinctly male or female.
Synonyms
  • Gender-neutral
  • Androgynous
  • Ambiguous