Names are a part of language which refers to a specific person.
In many languages, names are strongly associated with one of the binary genders, and are only given to children of that assigned sex (Ex: Charlotte or Mary being feminine; Jake or Aidan being masculine). However, some names may be used for any gender; these are referred to as unisex. Examples of unisex names in English include Jesse, Morgan, and Taylor.
Transgender people often change their name as part of their transition, along with changing pronouns and titles, especially if their birth name doesn't match their gender. Non-binary people or those with an androgynous gender expression may seek a unisex name. New names can be chosen by the individual, but those on good terms with their families may ask their parents to choose, since parents typically choose children's names at birth.
In countries which do not legally recognize changes of gender it may be difficult or impossible to change one's name to match one's gender identity.
Birth Name[]
A birth name is the name a person was given at birth. If one changes their name, their birth name is then called a "deadname". Some people dislike the term "deadname" and prefer to use more positive alternatives, such as birth name, assigned name, original name, cold name, and others. Some individuals may choose to keep their birth name even if they change their gender.
Some people prefer to be called by their birth name in certain situations. For example, if one's parents/family is unaware, they might ask to be called by their birth name so they aren't outed. People may choose to use their birth name in other contexts as well, such as for safety reasons that don't have anything to do with family or friends, such as visiting or living in an anti-LGBTQIA+ country or region, or because they may have legal documents that don't have their chosen name, and ask to be referred to by their deadname to prevent any issues.
It is considered extremely taboo to ask someone what their birth name is, as the question is both extremely invasive and can cause great distress or dysphoria to the individual being asked. Generally, the individual will tell you themself if they're okay with you knowing, or for you to use it in a context similar to those listed above.
Chosen Name[]
A chosen name is a method by which any individual may choose a preference of a name, proposed by the person themself or another individual. This choice is frequently utilized so that it fits neatly with the individuals‘ preferred gender.
Transgender people generally choose a new name when socially transitioning because their birth name did not fit their gender identity or the name was a form of involuntary gender exclusivism. Other times, deadnames carry emotional baggage that one may want to discard, even if it was already gender-neutral.
In most circumstances, names can be chosen out of any preferred binary or gender neutral names that will satisfy the individual's gender identity. Chosen names are frequently gender neutral, although binary names are a perfectly valid choice.
This wiki is also home to a list of name ideas in each of the masculine, feminine, and unisex categories, which may be helpful if you're looking to choose a new name for yourself.
Legal Name Change[]
Most jurisdictions allow individuals to legally change their name, usually by petitioning the court and appearing for a hearing. Through this process a chosen name can become a person's legal name as well. Documents like a driver's license, passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued ID get updated/re-issued to reflect this change.
Deadnaming[]
Deadnaming is the (intentional or unintentional) use of a transgender person's birth name instead of their chosen name. When done on purpose it is a form of transphobia.
For more information on deadnaming, please see the Deadnaming page.