What does unisex mean?
Unisex means suitable for people of any gender and is commonly used for clothing, products, styles, and facilities. A unisex jacket, for example, is not marketed as exclusively masculine or feminine; similarly, a unisex restroom is intended for anyone to use. The term became especially prominent in fashion and retail, where it describes garments and collections that do not divide items into traditional categories for men and women. Although “unisex” often expresses a practical approach to design, the related expression “gender-neutral” can carry a broader social emphasis on avoiding the assumption that people belong to a particular gender. The word is standard in both British and American English. It is most often an adjective, as in “unisex clothing,” but it can also be used as a noun for a garment or style intended for either gender. Its usefulness lies in describing something without assigning a gender to its intended wearer or user.
Designed for, worn by, or suitable for people of any gender.
"The company offers a unisex hoodie in several sizes and colours."
This is the predominant part of speech. It is common in fashion and retail and is also used of facilities intended for everyone.
A garment, clothing style, or item intended for either gender.
"They chose a relaxed unisex that could be styled in different ways."
The noun is less common than the attributive adjective use, as in “unisex clothing.”
The plural is uncommon because the noun is normally used attributively.
"The designer showed a collection of unisexes for the spring season."
“Unisex” does not mean “without gender”; it means without prescribing one gender for the wearer or user.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unisex come from?
Unisex developed in English during the mid-20th century. It combines the Latin-derived prefix uni-, meaning “one” or “single,” with sex, producing the sense “of or for either sex.” The formation reflects the same classical elements found in words such as sexual and sexagenary, although the compound has a modern English meaning specific to products, clothing, and facilities.
Related word forms
How unisex is actually used
The adjective is the most common use and is especially frequent in retail, fashion, and public facilities. As a noun, “a unisex” is understood but is less common than using “unisex” attributively before a noun. In contemporary usage, “gender-neutral” may be preferred when the aim is to avoid imposing gender categories rather than simply describing an item intended for all genders.