திருநங்கை

Etymology

 * coined by activists in the 2000s "as a progressive, 'modern,' and 'authentically Tamil' identity in contrast to hijra".

Noun

 * 1) trans woman

Usage notes
This term, along with and  are considered the most respectful terms of reference among the Tamil Nadu transgender community. They were adopted by the government of Tamil Nadu between 2006 and 2020 upon the community's request as a replacement for the term, which was considered derogatory and restricted to only trans women. In 2020, the government ordered the use of the term instead, but transgender activists have stated that it is demeaning and othering.