# trans

/ˈtɹænz/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/trans
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. gender identity

adjective · CEFR B2

describing someone whose gender identity is different from the sex they were assigned at birth.

For teachers: denoting or relating to a person whose sense of personal identity and gender does not correspond with their birth sex.

- The community center provides a safe space for trans and non-binary youth.
- The documentary explores the diverse lived experiences of trans individuals navigating the healthcare system in urban environments.

Usage: Almost always used as an adjective before a noun or after a linking verb.

### 2. chemistry

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical

used in science to describe molecules where certain parts are on opposite sides of a bond.

For teachers: describing an isomer in which functional groups are on opposite sides of the plane of a double bond or ring.

- Trans fats are often found in processed foods and can be bad for your heart.
- The physical properties of the trans isomer differ significantly from those of the cis isomer due to the different spatial arrangement of the atoms.

Usage: Usually appears as a prefix in chemical nomenclature, often italicized.

### 3. car transmission

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal · American English

a short way of saying a vehicle's transmission (the gears).

For teachers: a clipping of 'transmission', referring to the system of gears in a motor vehicle.

- The mechanic told me that my car needs a new trans.
- After the race, the pit crew discovered a fluid leak in the trans that had likely cost the driver several seconds per lap.

Teaching tip: This usage is very common in automotive contexts in the US but might be confusing in general conversation due to the more common gender-related sense.

## Examples

- She is a trans woman who works as a doctor.
- The community center offers specific resources and support groups for trans youth and their families.
- The documentary explores the diverse experiences of trans individuals navigating the healthcare system, highlighting both the progress made in gender-affirming care and the systemic barriers that remain.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.