Genderless – What is it? What does it mean?

Genderless typically refers to people who do not have a gender or do not identify with any specific gender on the spectrum. Individuals who experience a lack or absence of gender may also identify with the term.

Genderless is sometimes used as a synonym for agender. It can also be an umbrella term for other identities that reflect a lack or absence of gender as a whole.

Terminology & History

According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the word means lacking qualities typically associated with either sex. Genderless may also often refer to fashion and style, especially in Japanese and Korean cultures.

Pronouns

Genderless people typically use gender-neutral or neopronouns. That said, some may stick to pronouns like he/him or she/her if they feel comfortable with them.

Remember to always share your pronouns in conversation and written communication. If you are unsure of the pronouns a person is using – ask them or their partners. Never assume someone’s pronouns based on their gender identity or expression.

Flag and Symbols

There are several different versions of the genderless flag available online. Most of them feature similar colors. The new and most commonly used flag is based on non-binary and agender flags. The colors mean the following:

• The black stripe stands for masculinity or male-aligned people
• The purple stripe represents femininity or female-aligned people
• White stands for the lack of gender
• Yellow for androgyny

Genderless flag

There is also a symbol that is the same for agender people.

Agender symbol

How to Know if You are Genderless?

If the label genderless feels like the best term to use to describe your identity then go ahead and claim it. If it makes you content, satisfied, happy then this is the best term for you to use to describe yourself. No one can tell you who you are and are not but yourself. Always remember, labels and terms are constantly evolving. Sexuality and gender are a spectrum and your current identity may not be the same as time passes. It is valid no matter what anyone says.

How to Support Genderless People?

The key to supporting someone who is genderless is research and education. Be an active listener, ask appropriate questions, and provide a safe and secure environment for genderless people at home, work, school, or anywhere else.

You can also join LGBTQ+ organizations and forums to find out more.

Gallery

A flag with the genderless symbol on it

Black, grey and white version of the genderless flag