crossdress

[ kraws-dres, kros- ]

verb (used without object)

1. to dress in clothing typically worn by members of a different gender.

Other Words From

• crossdresser noun
• crossdressing noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of crossdress¹

First recorded in 1965–70; cross ( def ) (in the sense “opposite, contrary”) + dress ( def ) (in the sense “to put clothing on”)

Example Sentences

There are many other reasons that straight men, who aren’t interested in transitioning or having sex with men, crossdress.

From Slate

“If, as a man, you simply want to wear makeup or crossdress you can’t live an open life in Nigeria.”

From The Guardian

I'm very into role-playing: when I crossdress, it is an overt way of showing people I'm playing a "character".

From The Guardian

The punchline arrives when the pals crossdress, too.

From Slate