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Ceterosexual: Definition, Non-Binary Attraction, and Identity

Definition : The term "ceterosexual" describes a person who is attracted to non-binary individuals. This term is often used by non-binary people themselves to describe their attraction to other non-binary people, or by binary people (men or women) who are exclusively attracted to non-binary individuals.

Keywords
non-binary, sexual orientation, non-binary attraction, LGBTQ+, gender, gender identity
Topics
Glossary of Sexual Orientations
Updated

Read in French → Ceterosexualité

Illustration for the term “Ceterosexual” – PLANJUS glossary

Ceterosexual

What is Ceterosexuality?

The term “ceterosexual” describes a person who is attracted to non-binary individuals. This term is often used by non-binary people themselves to describe their attraction to other non-binary people, or by binary people (men or women) who are exclusively attracted to non-binary individuals. It emphasizes attraction to genders that are neither strictly masculine nor strictly feminine.

Understanding Ceterosexuality

Ceterosexuality is a sexual orientation that recognizes and validates the existence and attractiveness of non-binary people. Here are some key aspects:

  • Attraction to non-binary individuals: The core of ceterosexuality is romantic, emotional, and/or sexual attraction to individuals who identify outside the male/female binary. This can include genderfluid, agender, bigender, demigender people, etc.

  • Usage by non-binary people: This term is particularly relevant for non-binary individuals who wish to express their attraction without using terms like “heterosexual” or “homosexual,” which are often based on gender binarity.

  • Usage by binary people: A man or woman who is exclusively attracted to non-binary individuals can also identify as ceterosexual, although this is less common than its use by non-binary people.

  • Distinction from other orientations:Ceterosexuality differs from bisexuality or pansexuality in that it specifies an attraction to non-binary people, rather than to multiple genders (bisexuality) or all genders (pansexuality).

Why a Specific Term?

The emergence of terms like ceterosexual addresses a need for precision and visibility:

  • Visibility of non-binary people: It helps recognize and validate non-binary individuals as full romantic and sexual partners, not as a “third option” or an exception.

  • Precision of attraction: It allows individuals to describe their attraction more specifically, especially when existing terms do not fully capture their experience.

  • Affirmation of identity: For non-binary people, identifying as ceterosexual can be an affirmation of their own gender identity and their place in the spectrum of attractions.

The Importance of Recognition and Support

Supporting ceterosexual individuals and recognizing their orientation is essential for creating a more inclusive LGBTQ+ community. This involves:

  • Respecting self-identifications: Accepting and using the terms individuals choose to describe themselves.

  • Educating on non-binarity: Understanding that gender is a spectrum and that non-binary people are diverse and valid.

  • Avoiding assumptions: Not presuming a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

  • Promoting inclusion: Ensuring that LGBTQ+ spaces and discussions are welcoming for non-binary people and those attracted to them.

Ceterosexuality is an important term that enriches our understanding of the diversity of attractions and contributes to greater visibility and inclusion of non-binary people in the dialogue on sexual orientation.