Trans Woman

A trans woman is a woman who was not assigned female at birth and who identifies herself as female. The term describes a gender identity and does not automatically refer to body characteristics, appearance, or sexual orientation. Both “trans woman” and “transwoman” are found in usage; the respectful self-designation of the person concerned is what matters most.

The abbreviation MTF means “male to female,” but many trans people reject it as outdated or inappropriate because it does not adequately reflect gender identity. In interactions with trans women, chosen names, correct pronouns, and respectful language are important. Medical or social transition processes can vary greatly from person to person.