English Reference
adjective · noun

CIS

adj. · n.
cis

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.describing someone whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth.

    adj.denoting or relating to a person whose sense of personal identity and gender corresponds with their birth sex.

    Simple

    The survey asked both cis and trans individuals to share their experiences.

    In context

    Sociological research often compares the lived experiences of cis and trans people to identify systemic disparities in healthcare access.

    cisgender
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    adj.describing a molecule where certain parts are on the same side of a bond.

    adj.characterised by having certain atoms or groups on the same side of the plane of a double bond or ring.

    Simple

    The scientist explained the difference between the cis and trans versions of the fat.

    In context

    The physical properties of the cis isomer differ significantly from those of its trans counterpart due to the spatial arrangement of the functional groups.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    n.Stands for Commonwealth of Independent States.

    n.Abbreviation for Commonwealth of Independent States; a regional intergovernmental organisation in Eurasia.

    Simple

    Several countries in the CIS agreed to new trade rules last year.

    In context

    Diplomatic relations between member states of the CIS have become increasingly complex due to shifting geopolitical alliances in the region.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical Medicine

    n.Stands for clinically isolated syndrome.

    n.Abbreviation for clinically isolated syndrome; a first episode of neurologic symptoms that may lead to multiple sclerosis.

    Simple

    The doctor monitored the patient closely after the first signs of CIS.

    In context

    Patients presenting with CIS require longitudinal MRI monitoring to determine the likelihood of progression to a formal diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

  5. 05 C1 Advanced British EnglishTechnical Law

    n.Stands for Construction Industry Scheme.

    n.Abbreviation for Construction Industry Scheme; a UK tax set of rules for contractors and subcontractors.

    Simple

    If you work as a builder in the UK, you might need to register for CIS.

    In context

    Under the CIS, contractors deduct money from a subcontractor's payments and pass it to the tax authorities as advance payments towards tax.


Etymology 1

Initialisms.

Etymology 2

Likely originates from the false etymology asserting that cis is an initialism standing for comfortable in skin.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Frequent
Updated