hermaphroditic
- adjective
- /hɜrˈmæfroʊˌdɪtɪk/
- Specialized
- Because the network used hermaphroditic interfaces, any two modules could be joined without an adapter.
Examples
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Technicians preferred hermaphroditic plugs when assembling the modular cable system in tight spaces.
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The lab uses a hermaphroditic connector to simplify wiring between instruments and power supplies.
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The hermaphroditic connector is versatile for various applications.
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Many modern devices use hermaphroditic plugs for convenience.
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The lab uses a hermaphroditic connector to simplify wiring between instruments and power supplies.
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Technicians prefer hermaphroditic plugs for their ability to connect with multiple devices easily.
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Because the network uses hermaphroditic interfaces, it eliminates the need for adapter cables.
Synonyms
Having both male and female sex organs
A plant or animal that has both male and female reproductive parts on the same body
Having both male and female sex parts on one body
Having both male and female parts in the same plant
Having both male and female reproductive parts in the same body, as in some flowers or animals
Surface Forms
Morphology
hermaphroditic = hermaphrodite (transparent) = hermaphrodite + ic
The technical connector sense is an extended, non-biological application of 'hermaphrodite' + '-ic', but the composition remains clearly interpretable as 'having both male and female contacts'.
Etymology
Hermaphroditic is also used for plugs and connectors by the same idea from the myth: it means having both 'male' and 'female' contacts. That's why a hermaphroditic connector can join to itself or to either type without an adapter.