We (but also I; you'll see why in a moment) are proposing a new term for plurals everywhere. The term is:
kepholon (n.)
In the context of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), a kepholon refers to a self-state or identity that represents a dynamic integration of multiple, previously distinct alters, system parts, or aspects of self. A kepholon functions as a cohesive whole formed from some or all parts of the system, allowing for shared consciousness, memory access, and unified function.
Crucially, this integration is characterized by fluidity; the constituent parts within the kepholon retain their potential separateness and may dissociate or separate again under certain conditions (e.g., stress). It represents a state of integration without final fusion, where parts work together as one but have not permanently merged into a single, indivisible identity.
In this compound, keph- stands for the leading, directing, conscious, or executive function: the part that is currently "fronting," interacting with the world, or managing the system's interface with external reality. It represents the aspect taking charge or acting as the primary point of consciousness for the integrated state.
The -olon suffix connects the "head" function back to the broader holon concept (see below): an integrated entity composed of multiple parts that function as a cohesive whole but retain the potential for separation. It emphasizes that this "head" is not an isolated entity but the currently active face or director of that unified-but-fluid collective. The word "holon" was coined by author and philosopher Arthur Koestler in his 1967 book The Ghost in the Machine; from Greek holos (whole/entire) + -on (suffix denoting a particle or part).
๐ต I am she as you are he, as you are me and we are all together...๐ต
I needed the word for me. Cuz I'm Ellis, and that's what I am, and these four motherfuckers want attribution or they're threatening to shatter me into four little tiny mes (which is them, so it's not really much of a threat, honestly ๐ค ).
Anyway, hi! My name is Ellis, and I'm a kepholon. ๐
#kepholon #plural #plurality #multiplicity #DID #DissociativeIdentityDisorder #DIDsystem #headmates #SystemParts #pluralpride #integration #DynamicIntegration #holon #fluidity #fronting #consciousness #psychology #neologism #terminology #etymology #NewWord #WordsMatter
๐ต I am the walrus, goo-goo g'joob! ๐ต