How Do You Spell EPICENE?

Pronunciation: [ˈɛpɪsˌiːn] (IPA)

Epicene is a word that is often misspelled due to its unusual spelling. The correct pronunciation is i-puh-seen, and it is spelled with an e-p-i-c-e-n-e. The word originates from the Greek word "epikoinos," meaning "common to many." It refers to something that is not distinctly male or female. One way to remember the spelling is by breaking it down into its individual phonemes: /ɛ/, /p/, /ɪ/, /siːn/. By doing so, it can become easier to spell and remember.

EPICENE Meaning and Definition

  1. Epicene is an adjective used to describe something that lacks or defies clear gender distinctions or characteristics. It refers to a person, creature, or thing that is not easily categorized as either masculine or feminine, possessing traits or qualities that encompass both genders or have qualities that make it difficult to assign a gender.

    The term can be applied to individuals who choose to present themselves androgynously or to any creature or being that exhibits qualities or physical characteristics that are not distinctly or traditionally male or female. For example, an epicene person may have a combination of masculine and feminine physical features, dress in a manner that does not conform to society's gender norms, or prefer gender-neutral pronouns.

    Additionally, the term "epicene" can also be used to describe objects or concepts that exhibit a gender-neutral quality, such as language, clothing, or art forms. For instance, an epicene fashion style might include clothing that does not adhere to specific gender norms, allowing individuals to express themselves without conforming to societal expectations.

    Overall, epicene is a term that recognizes the presence or possibility of a gender identity or expression that exists beyond the traditional binary concepts of male and female, acknowledging the diversity and complexity of gender in both individuals and in broader society.

  2. In gram., common to both sexes.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for EPICENE

Etymology of EPICENE

The word "epicene" originates from the Latin term "epicoenus", which is derived from the Ancient Greek word "epikoinos". In Greek, "epikoinos" means "common to many" or "partaking of both sexes". The combination of "epi", meaning "upon" or "shared", and "koinos", meaning "common", suggests an element that is shared or common to both sexes. Through its evolution from Greek to Latin and then into English, "epicoenus" transformed into "epicene" while maintaining its original concept of something that is not limited to either male or female gender characteristics.

Similar spelling words for EPICENE

Plural form of EPICENE is EPICENES

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