FYI - Androphile/Androphilia and Gynophile/Gynephilia

Emerald · April 28, 2007, 05:52:42 AM

Gynephilia (or gynophelia) - the romantic/sexual attraction to adult females.
Androphilia - the romantic/sexual attraction to adult males.
Gynophile (or gynephile) - one who is attracted to women.
Adrophile - one who is attracted to men.

The terms 'gynephilia' and 'androphilia' are increasingly used in reference to the sexual orientation of transgender and intersex individuals. The terms 'homosexual' (same-sex attraction) and 'heterosexual' (different-sex attraction) can be confusing when individuals change sex, have crossgender identification, or intersex conditions.

Androphile and gynephile are frequently preferred over 'homosexual', 'heterosexual', 'gay' or 'lesbian' in the transgender community due to the problematic reference to the sex and/or gender of the transperson seeking a partner. Debates of whether female-attracted transmen are a part of the lesbian community are an example of the mucky and turbulent waters caused by terms that don't entirely apply to the circumstances. In contrast, 'androphilia' and 'gynephilia' clearly describe the characteristics found desirable in a potential partner. Additionally, 'androphile' and 'gynophile' indicate a specific relationship interest in adults, not children. The terms are not to be confused with ' ->-bleeped-<-': the love of oneself as a woman.

-Emerald

Kendall · April 28, 2007, 08:02:16 PM

nice post... first time hearing these terms.

Expands my limited vocabulary when dealing with orientations.

KK

Wendy · April 28, 2007, 08:21:13 PM

Emerald,

Thanks for your post. Gynephilia makes more sense to me. Of course "likes women" works too. 😉

W

FYI - Androphile/Androphilia and Gynophile/Gynephilia

Emerald

Kendall

Wendy