Onychigen is a xenogender inspired by the compulsion to bite one's nails. This identity reflects the nuanced feelings associated with nail biting, such as anxiety, focus, and a form of self soothing. It acknowledges the complicated relationship between stress and relief, embodying a unique blend of emotions.
History
The term onychigen was coined by Tumblr user bunnymuffinz on June 17th, 2024. [1]
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Deep blue was chosen for its association with deep emotions and the subconscious, highlighting the anxiety that triggers nail biting, slate gray is a neutral color representing mental distraction and the foggy state of mind that accompanies the compulsion, soft pink was selected to reflect the comforting and self-soothing aspect of nail biting, bright red represents the intense urge and emotional intensity behind the compulsion, pastel green was chosen for its calming effect, symbolizing the relief and peace that follows the compulsion, and lastly light beige reflects vulnerability and the raw, exposed feeling post compulsion.
Etymology
The prefix onych originates from the Greek word onycho which relates to nails. The suffix -gen is derived from the Greek word genos meaning birth or origin.