CultureAugust 26, 2026

transvestite

tranz-VES-tite

Definition

A term used in this article to describe the specific aesthetic and gender-defying character archetype of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the film The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'trans' (across or beyond) and 'vestire' (to clothe). It emerged in the early 20th century to describe individuals who dress in clothing typically associated with a gender other than their own.

In the news

The article uses this term as part of the iconic description of Curry's character, Dr. Frank-N-Furter, emphasizing the role's historical impact on queer representation and individual liberation.

Tim Curry, 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' star, dies at 80

Read the full article ↗

USA Today

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.