LGBTQ+ Terminology
Want to know what “trade,” “vers,” or “power bottom” really mean? This updated gay slang glossary breaks down 40 must-know terms every queer should learn and live by. Language shapes how we see ourselves — and how others see us. It is about showing respect and celebrating diversity.
LGBT Glossary A
LGBTQ slang, LGBTQ speak or queer slang is a set of English slang lexicon used predominantly among LGBTQ people. It has been used in various languages since the early 20th century as a means by which members of the LGBTQ community identify themselves and speak in code with brevity and speed to others. [1][2] LGBTQ slang has played an integral part in LGBTQ culture for decades. Slang language. The content of the Chew glossary can be distressing - there are many words documented here that are offensive. Please take care when using the glossary. Glossary of LGBTQIA+ Terms
Gay – A common term for men who are attracted to other men; also an umbrella term used to refer to the LGBTQ community as a whole. Gender Binary – The division of gender into two distinct and opposite categories (man and woman). The language and terminology folks use to describe their experiences of gender and sexual orientation is ever-evolving and the same term might have different meanings for different people. However, here is a glossary of some of the most commonly used terms. LGBTQIA+ Slurs and Slang
List of slurs that generally refer to gay and feminine men All of these terms are offensive and should never be replicated unless a necessary part of a title or other identifier, in which case enclose in quotation marks to indicate this. Curious about gender and sexuality? We dive into some useful terms and definitions. 100+ Gay Slang and LGBTQ+ Terms, Definitions, and Identities
Two-Spirit is an English term that is sometimes used in lieu of these terms in Indigenous languages. In some cases, Two-Spirit is used as an umbrella term by Indigenous people who also identify with another LGBTQ+ identity (gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, etc.). The LGBTQ Resource Center recognizes and affirms the vast diversity of definitions, identities, experiences, and terms expanding beyond this glossary. The terms below are always evolving, changing, and often mean different things to different people.
The HomoCulture Glossary
Gay | A person who is emotionally, romantically or sexually attracted to members of the same gender. Men, women and non-binary people may use this term to describe themselves. .
HRC
You might hear many Gay/Bi men and Drag entertainers call each other Girl or “Gurl”, but did you know there’s actual history to Girl? Back when being Queer was illegal, men and women would change pronouns so they could safely talk about homosexual relationships in public. .
List of LGBTQIA+ Terms
As a rule, try to avoid labeling an activity, emotion or relationship “gay,” “lesbian” or “bisexual” unless you would call the same activity, emotion or relationship “straight” if engaged in by someone of another orientation. Offensive: “sexual preference”. .