Itheshethey

itheshethey is a neologism used in discussions of gender identity and pronoun usage. It is associated with nonbinary or gender-nonconforming identities and is described by some speakers as a way to express a flexible or inclusive pronoun system that resists a single binary mapping. The term functions as a label for a stance toward pronouns rather than a fixed set, and its exact interpretation varies by individual.

Usage and interpretation vary widely. People who identify with itheshethey may specify preferred pronouns, which can include common options such as they/them or he/she, or other neopronouns; some describe itheshethey as indicating that any pronoun may be used, or that pronouns may change with context or over time. In all cases, the pronouns should be used as requested by the person.

Reception and context. The term appears most often in online communities and discussions of neopronouns. Mainstream recognition is limited, and opinions differ. Many style guides and linguists emphasize respecting the pronouns a person states, while acknowledging that neopronouns can pose challenges for conventional pronoun-usage conventions and readability. The guiding principle remains to ask for and use an individual’s stated pronouns.

History and notes. Itheshethey emerged within the broader, ongoing expansion of gender language in the 21st century. There is no universally accepted spelling or grammar for the term, and interpretations can differ across communities and individuals. See also neopronouns, gender identity, nonbinary.