Cross Dresser Or Transvestite

Cross dresser no doubt.

One of the greatest 'problems' we face being who we are, within a world-wide society, is that applying labels that mean the same to everyone is almost impossible. The term "transvestite" comes from the Latin "trans", meaning 'across' and "vestitus", meaning 'dressed, so literally meaning 'across dresser', or those who choose to wear the clothing of the opposite gender.

Since the early 20th century however "transvestite" has frequently been used to refer to people who voluntarily wear the clothes of the opposite gender for sexual interests. Although it can apply to cisgender women the term is generally applied to males who dress as women for sexual or erotic purposes.

It was the assumption that any male who chooses to dress and present as female did so for sexual reasons that led to the development of the term "cross dresser", as a way of identifying those who 'cross dress' because they admire and like to identify with women. Generally there is no erotic or sexual motivation.

Of course, like all human conditions, there is rarely 'black and white', instead each individual represents their own shade of 'grey'. It is thus up to the individual to make any definition required.

It's also important to remember that in different parts of the world some terms we use can have different meanings. It's another reason why, as a general principle, I don't like labels applied to people.

I am 'me' - that's the only label that matters.

Thanks for the reply.

Then, definitely, I would be a MTF cross dresser,

I describe myself as a  cross dresser, CD or more recently MTF cross dresser. Years ago myself and others who dressed fem were called transvestites or TV. That name seems to be fading away.

I agree with Jane, the only label that truly matters is "me".  I yam what I yam.

Jillian

Interesting history presented by Jane here and am in agreement. Suppose I started as a cd and evolved into a tranvestite but its a term hardly used these days. I would think that most of us cross back and forth at times between the terms then

I am with Jane on this.  Since I began to embrace all of who I am over the past year, I have struggle to understand where I fit.  The only conclusion that I have reached is that I am me, a unique individual who is comfortable with who I am.

MacKenzie

2016_crossdresser transgender chat: Martha Lou original post: 

I get confused over the terms cross dresser and transvestite.

I am a male heterosexual cross dresser who makes a very attractive mature woman. When dressed I become very feminine like a woman and have developed many feminine traits ( but not too overbearing).

Generally when I go out dressed I have been accepted as a woman.

I thoroughly enjoy my time being a woman and acting as one.

I do have a higher pitched voice and have feminized it. But still have to be careful there.

I was just wondering do I fit the category of MTF cross dresser or a transvestite.

Ladies, please let me know

Thanks.