(Anthropology) A term for people who cross-dress or reverse traditional gender roles within a society. The reason may be magickal, social, economic, psychological, or a combination of these motivations. Sociologically, the treatment of a Berdache has varied greatly. In some cultures the Berdache was (and remains) honored and accepted. In others they are believed to have magick powers. In others they have been treated poorly, rejected or dismissed, or even abused and killed.