Kinner
Meaning
- In certain South Asian cultures, kinner refers to a person who identifies as a transgender individual, specifically someone who is neither strictly male nor female.
- The term is often used in India to describe individuals who belong to the hijra community, a distinct social group with its own cultural and historical significance.
- Historically, kinner is also sometimes used in reference to mythological or spiritual beings that are neither fully human nor divine.
Word History
The word kinner originates from the Sanskrit word kinnar, which refers to a class of mythological beings in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, depicted as half-human, half-divine or with the ability to change gender. Over time, it evolved in various South Asian languages to refer to members of the transgender or hijra community.
Examples
- The kinner community plays an important cultural and ceremonial role in many Indian weddings.
- In certain parts of India, kinner individuals are revered and considered to have unique spiritual powers.
- The term kinner has been reclaimed by the transgender community in modern-day society.
Synonyms
Hijra, transgender, third gender, aravani (in some cultures)
Related Words
LGBTQ+, gender identity, non-binary, cultural identity
Antonyms
Cisgender, male, female