U speak Greek

Uranian: From Astronomical Term to a Symbol of Gender Identity

Definition and Contexts:

  1. Astronomy: In astronomy, “Uranian” pertains to anything related to the planet Uranus. This includes its physical characteristics, orbit, and any phenomena associated with the planet.
  2. Mythology and Symbolism: “Uranian” is derived from Uranus, the Greek god of the sky. In this context, it symbolizes the vastness and celestial nature of the heavens.
  3. Literary and Gender Identity: Historically, “Uranian” has been used to describe a form of homosexual love, particularly in 19th-century literature and discussions of gender identity. This usage was influenced by the work of Karl Heinrich Ulrichs and others, who proposed a unique gender identity concept, inspired by the mythological figure of Uranus.

Etymology: The term originates from the Greek god Uranus, representing the sky. In astronomy, it was adopted after the discovery of the planet Uranus in 1781. The gender and sexuality-related usage emerged in the 19th century within the German gay rights movement.

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