Gynoids

Gynoid is a term used in robotics and science fiction to denote a humanoid robot designed to resemble a woman. The word derives from the Greek gyne for woman and the suffix -oid meaning "resembling." It is the counterpart of android, which denotes male-presenting humanoid robots. Gynoids range from stylized figures to highly realistic designs that mimic facial features, skin-like materials, and naturalistic locomotion. They may be equipped with speech synthesis, voice recognition, and artificial perception to support social interaction.

In practice, gynoids are used in a variety of contexts. Social and service gynoids operate in customer service, hospitality, or caregiving roles, while sexual or intimate gynoids are produced for the adult market in some jurisdictions. The design choices reflect trade-offs between realism, safety, and privacy, and many researchers pursue approaches to ensure transparent interaction, consent, and user well-being.

Ethical and social considerations surround gynoids. Debates address issues of objectification and gender representation, the potential impact on employment and social relations, and questions about the status of machine autonomy or personhood. Safety standards, data protection, and consent in interactions with autonomous agents are active areas of research and policy discussion.

Historically, the concept predates modern robotics, appearing in early science fiction and art. The term gained prominence as humanoid robotics advanced, with real-world prototypes and research platforms informing both technical development and cultural perception.

See also android, humanoid robot, sex robot.