Hermaphrodites
Hermaphrodites (pronunciation: /hɜːrˈmæfrədaɪt/) is a term used in the field of Biology and Medicine to describe an organism that has complete or partial reproductive organs and produces gametes normally associated with both male and female sexes.
Etymology
The term "Hermaphrodite" originates from the ancient Greek god Hermaphroditus, who was the child of Hermes and Aphrodite. Hermaphroditus was fused with a nymph, Salmacis, resulting in one individual possessing physical traits of both sexes.
In Humans
In humans, the term hermaphrodite is no longer in medical use. Instead, the term Intersex is used to describe a variety of physical conditions in which an individual's reproductive or sexual anatomy doesn't fit typical definitions of male or female.
Related Terms
- Intersex: A term used to describe a variety of conditions in which an individual's reproductive or sexual anatomy doesn't fit typical definitions of male or female.
- Gonads: The organ that produces gametes; a testis or ovary.
- Gametes: A mature haploid male or female germ cell which is able to unite with another of the opposite sex in sexual reproduction to form a zygote.
See Also
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