The Oxford English Dictionary is considering adding “Mx.” to its next edition as a gender-neutral alternative to “Mr.,” “Ms.” and “Mrs.” “Mx.,” which is pronounced “mux” or “mix,” would provide an option for people who do not identify with their gender equivalents. The term has been accepted in the UK, and having been adopted as an option by official government documents along with some banks and universities. Currently there is no widely-used gender-neutral honorific and this addition would mark the first time that such an option is going to appear in the dictionary.

One of the earliest known uses of “Mx.” is in a 1977 magazine article that suggested it as a replacement for “Mr.” or “Mrs./Ms.,” for people of nonbinary genders. OED began considering adding the term after its use became more widespread, OED assistant editor Jonathan Dent told. The organization judges whether to add a word to the dictionary based on whether it is widely used, “significant or important” and likely to stay relevant over time.“This an example of how the English language adapts to people’s needs, with people using language in ways that suit them rather than letting language dictate identity to them.” The inclusion is a mark of the English language’s ability to accommodate society’s changing attitudes on gender and identity, he said.

This is a welcome step to recognize the people of nonbinary genders. Now people can use Mx. while addressing these people. This will help the gender-neutral people to uphold their dignity.

By Premji