What Are Cross-Dressing Men Called? Understanding Labels and Respecting Identity
When you’re new to learning about cross-dressing — whether for yourself, your partner, or someone you care about — it’s normal to wonder:
What are men who cross-dress actually called?
Is there a specific term? Is there a right or wrong way to talk about it?
Let’s break it down simply — with clarity, respect, and no judgment.
The Most Common Term: Cross-Dresser
The most widely accepted and neutral term is simply:
👉 Cross-dresser (or CD for short).
This refers to someone — often male, but not always — who wears clothing typically associated with a different gender. It’s important to understand that cross-dressing is about expression, not identity. Many cross-dressers are heterosexual men who identify as male and do not wish to transition.
Other Words You Might Hear
Some cross-dressing men prefer other labels, depending on how they feel about their presentation, gender, or community. Here are a few you might come across:
Gender Nonconforming: A broader term for anyone who expresses gender in ways outside traditional norms.
Drag Queen: Typically refers to performance-based cross-dressing, often exaggerated or theatrical.
Feminine-presenting Male / Femme Guy: Sometimes used in LGBTQ+ circles to describe men who embrace a softer, more traditionally feminine look.
En Femme: A term used within the cross-dressing community when someone is dressed in their feminine presentation.
These aren’t interchangeable, though — they reflect different experiences and intentions. When in doubt, ask the individual what they prefer.
What They’re Not Called (Respectfully)
Outdated or offensive terms (you might find in old media or used with mockery) should be avoided. Words like “transvestite” are largely considered outdated and can be hurtful unless someone specifically uses that label for themselves.
The most respectful thing you can do? Use the language they use. If someone says, “I’m a cross-dresser,” or “I enjoy presenting as feminine,” mirror that — it shows care and understanding.
Does Cross-Dressing Mean They’re Trans?
Not necessarily. Cross-dressing is not the same as being transgender.
Transgender people identify as a gender different from the one they were assigned at birth. Cross-dressers, on the other hand, usually identify with their assigned gender but enjoy expressing another side of themselves through clothing and presentation.
That said — for some, cross-dressing may be part of exploring their gender identity. The key is not to assume.
Final Thoughts
So, what are cross-dressing men called?
Most often: cross-dressers. But the real answer is whatever term they feel reflects who they are.
At the heart of it, cross-dressing is about self-expression — not about fitting into a rigid label. So if you’re asking because you want to better understand or support someone, you’re already on the right path.
Want to keep learning?
→ What does cross-dressing indicate?
→ Why does my husband cross-dress?
→ Is it normal for a guy to wear a dress?