latine

Latine is a gender‑neutral neologism emerging in Spanish‑speaking contexts as an alternative to the traditionally gendered demonyms latino and latina, which refer to people of Latin American origin or heritage. The term replaces the gender‑specific suffix “‑o” or “‑a” with the gender‑neutral ending “‑e,” mirroring similar adaptations such as “elle” for “él/ella” and “amigues” for “amigos/amigas.” The word gained visibility in the early 2020s through social media, academic publications, and activism focused on inclusive language, particularly within youth and LGBTQ+ communities.

The formation of latine follows a broader linguistic trend in Spanish to create non‑binary forms that avoid the masculine default. Proponents argue that the suffix “‑e” is phonetically accessible and does not privilege any binary gender, thereby fostering a more inclusive identity for those who do not identify strictly as male or female. The term is employed in informal speech, digital communication, and occasional institutional contexts, such as university diversity programs and cultural organizations.

Reception of latine is mixed. Supporters view it as a practical step toward linguistic equity, while critics contend that it disrupts grammatical conventions, may cause confusion, and lacks endorsement from major language authorities such as the Real Academia Española. Some linguists note that Spanish already offers gender‑neutral options through collective nouns or the plural “latinos” when the group includes multiple genders. Nonetheless, latine continues to be used in activist circles and has entered certain style guides that aim to reflect contemporary inclusive practices.