Trans*+ is technically synonymous, though etymologically different from, trans, trans*, and transgender. It is the experience of having a gender identity that is different from one’s biological sex, or identify outside of the binary altogether. A trans*+ (trans, trans*, and transgender) person may be pre- or post-operative and is not defined by any predetermined gender formula. This term has become an umbrella term for nonconforming gender identity and expression. Trans*+, when written with an asterisk and superscript plus sign, de-notes transgender identities that continue to emerge. Trans* with only an asterisk denotes a segment of the transgender population that was inclusive of only some trans people’s identities, while excluding others. (sM)
