Exploring the vibrant and ever-evolving world of LGBTQ+ slang, our team has curated a list of the top slang terms used within the gay community. Whether you’re looking to expand your vocabulary or simply stay up-to-date with the latest trends, this article is your go-to guide. Trust us, you won’t want to miss out on this insightful and fun read!
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1. Queer
Queer is an umbrella term used to describe individuals who do not identify as heterosexual or cisgender. It is a reclaimed term that has been embraced by the LGBTQ+ community as a way to celebrate diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
- For example, someone might say, “I identify as queer because I don’t fit into traditional categories of sexuality.”
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ rights, a person might assert, “Queer people deserve equal rights and protections.”
- A queer individual might proudly proclaim, “I’m here, I’m queer, and I’m proud!”
2. LGBTQ+
LGBTQ+ is an acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer/Questioning. The “+” symbolizes the inclusion of other sexual orientations and gender identities. It is a term used to describe the diverse community of individuals who do not identify as heterosexual or cisgender.
- For instance, someone might say, “I’m a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.”
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, a person might assert, “We must fight for equality and acceptance for all LGBTQ+ individuals.”
- A supporter of LGBTQ+ rights might proudly declare, “Love is love, and everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.”
3. Rainbow
The rainbow is a symbol commonly associated with the LGBTQ+ community and represents diversity, inclusivity, and pride. It originated from the rainbow flag created by Gilbert Baker in 1978 and has since become an iconic symbol of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
- For example, during Pride Month, cities often display rainbow flags to show support for the LGBTQ+ community.
- A person might wear a rainbow pin or accessory to show their solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals.
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ representation in media, someone might say, “We need more diverse and authentic portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters on screen.”
4. Fabulous
Fabulous is a slang term often used within the LGBTQ+ community to describe something or someone as fantastic, amazing, or extraordinary. It is a term that embraces flamboyance, style, and confidence.
- For instance, a person might exclaim, “That drag queen’s performance was absolutely fabulous!”
- In a conversation about fashion, someone might say, “I love your outfit! You look fabulous!”
- A person might describe a party as fabulous if it was filled with energy, excitement, and joy.
5. Pride
Pride is a term commonly used within the LGBTQ+ community to describe a sense of self-acceptance, celebration, and empowerment. It refers to the act of embracing one’s authentic self and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.
- For example, during Pride parades and festivals, LGBTQ+ individuals and allies come together to celebrate and show support for the community.
- A person might say, “I take pride in my identity and will never hide who I am.”
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ history, someone might highlight the importance of the Stonewall Riots as a catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
6. Homo
This term is a slang abbreviation for “homosexual,” which refers to a person who is attracted to individuals of the same sex. It can be used both as a neutral term or as a derogatory slur.
- For example, someone might say, “He came out as homo last year and has been living his truth ever since.”
- In a negative context, someone might use it to insult someone by saying, “Don’t be such a homo.”
- A person discussing LGBTQ+ rights might say, “We need to create a safe space for homo individuals to express their identities.”
7. Fruit
This term is a slang reference to a gay man. It is often used in a playful or lighthearted manner.
- For instance, a friend might say, “He’s such a fruit, always dressing so stylishly.”
- In a positive context, someone might say, “I love hanging out with the fruit of the group, they bring so much joy.”
- A person describing someone’s personality might say, “He’s a real fruit, always making people laugh with his witty remarks.”
8. Sissy
This term is a derogatory slang word used to describe a gay man who is perceived as being effeminate or not conforming to traditional masculine gender norms.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s such a sissy, always talking with a high-pitched voice.”
- In a negative context, someone might use it to insult someone by saying, “Stop acting like a sissy, be a man.”
- A person discussing LGBTQ+ stereotypes might say, “The idea that all gay men are sissies is a harmful stereotype that needs to be debunked.”
9. Fairy
This term is a slang word used to describe a gay man who is perceived as being effeminate. It can be used both in a neutral or derogatory manner.
- For instance, someone might say, “He’s a fairy, always dancing and singing.”
- In a negative context, someone might use it to insult someone by saying, “Don’t be such a fairy, act like a man.”
- A person discussing LGBTQ+ representation might say, “We need to challenge the stereotype that all gay men are fairies.”
10. Queen
This term is a slang word used to describe a gay man who is flamboyant, confident, and embraces their femininity. It is often used in a positive and empowering way within the LGBTQ+ community.
- For example, someone might say, “She’s a queen, always slaying with her fashion choices.”
- In a positive context, someone might use it as a compliment by saying, “You are such a queen, always spreading positivity and love.”
- A person discussing LGBTQ+ empowerment might say, “We need to celebrate and uplift the queens within our community.”
11. Fag
This word is a highly offensive and derogatory term used to insult or demean gay men. It should never be used and is considered hate speech.
- For example, “He called him a fag as an insult.”
- In a discussion about homophobic language, someone might say, “The use of the word ‘fag’ perpetuates harmful stereotypes.”
- A person advocating for LGBTQ+ rights might argue, “We need to eliminate slurs like ‘fag’ from our vocabulary in order to create a more inclusive society.”
12. Faggot
Similar to “fag,” this word is a highly offensive and derogatory term used to insult or demean gay men. It is considered hate speech and should never be used.
- For instance, “He was called a faggot because of his sexual orientation.”
- In a conversation about homophobic slurs, someone might say, “Using derogatory terms like ‘faggot’ contributes to a hostile environment.”
- An LGBTQ+ activist might argue, “We must educate people about the harm caused by slurs like ‘faggot’ and work towards acceptance and understanding.”
13. Lavender
Historically, “lavender” has been used as a code word to refer to gay men. The term originated from the association of lavender flowers with homosexuality.
- For example, “He used lavender as a subtle way to indicate his sexual orientation.”
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ history, someone might say, “Lavender was often used as a secret symbol for the gay community.”
- An older LGBTQ+ individual might reminisce, “Back in my day, we used lavender to identify each other without drawing attention.”
14. Unicorn
In the LGBTQ+ community, a “unicorn” refers to a gay man who is in a relationship with a heterosexual woman. The term highlights the rarity of such relationships.
- For instance, “He’s a unicorn because he’s gay but dating a straight woman.”
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ relationships, someone might say, “Unicorns face unique challenges in navigating their identities within a heterosexual partnership.”
- An LGBTQ+ advocate might argue, “We need to support and understand unicorns as they navigate their complex relationships.”
15. Gold star
In the LGBTQ+ community, a “gold star” refers to a gay person who has never engaged in sexual activity with someone of the opposite sex. It is often used to emphasize someone’s identity and experience.
- For example, “She’s a gold star lesbian because she has only ever been with women.”
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ identities, someone might say, “Being a gold star can be both a source of pride and a point of contention within the community.”
- An LGBTQ+ individual might proudly declare, “I’m a gold star gay and proud of my identity.”
16. Dandy
Originally used to describe a man who is fashionable and well-dressed, “dandy” is sometimes used as a slang term for a gay man.
- For example, one might say, “He always dresses so stylishly, he’s such a dandy.”
- In a conversation about fashion, someone might mention, “There’s a strong dandy influence in his designs.”
- Another might comment, “He’s a bit of a dandy, always putting a lot of effort into his appearance.”
17. Mary
“Mary” is a slang term that is sometimes used to refer to a gay man.
- For instance, one might say, “He’s such a Mary, always hanging out with the girls.”
- In a conversation about stereotypes, someone might mention, “It’s unfair to assume that all gay men are Marys.”
- Another might comment, “I don’t like using terms like Mary, it feels derogatory.”
18. Pansy
Originally used to describe a type of flower, “pansy” is sometimes used as a derogatory term for an effeminate man or a gay man.
- For example, one might say, “He’s such a pansy, always acting so girly.”
- In a conversation about stereotypes, someone might mention, “Using terms like pansy perpetuates harmful stereotypes.”
- Another might comment, “I don’t like using derogatory terms like pansy, it’s disrespectful.”
19. Puff
“Puff” is a slang term that is sometimes used to refer to a gay man.
- For instance, one might say, “He’s a bit of a puff, always talking about fashion.”
- In a conversation about stereotypes, someone might mention, “Using terms like puff reinforces negative stereotypes.”
- Another might comment, “I prefer not to use slang terms like puff, it’s offensive.”
20. Bent
“Bent” is a slang term that is sometimes used to refer to someone who is homosexual.
- For example, one might say, “He’s bent, he only dates men.”
- In a conversation about sexuality, someone might mention, “Using terms like bent can be derogatory.”
- Another might comment, “I think it’s important to use respectful language when discussing someone’s sexual orientation.”
21. Bent as a nine-bob note
This phrase is used to describe someone who is gay or homosexual. It implies that their sexual orientation is not straight or heterosexual.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a nine-bob note,” to imply that a person is gay.
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, someone might mention, “Using phrases like ‘bent as a nine-bob note’ perpetuates harmful stereotypes.”
- Another person might ask, “Why do people still use derogatory slang like ‘bent’ to describe gay individuals?”
22. Bent as a three-dollar bill
This phrase is a slang term used to suggest that someone is gay or homosexual. It implies that their sexual orientation is not genuine or authentic.
- For instance, someone might comment, “He’s as bent as a three-dollar bill,” to insinuate that a person is gay.
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ acceptance, someone might argue, “Using phrases like ‘bent as a three-dollar bill’ perpetuates harmful stereotypes.”
- Another person might say, “It’s important to challenge and reject language that stigmatizes and marginalizes the gay community.”
23. Bent as a butcher’s hook
This phrase is used to describe someone who is gay or homosexual. It implies that their sexual orientation is not straight or heterosexual.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a butcher’s hook,” to suggest that a person is gay.
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, someone might remark, “Using phrases like ‘bent as a butcher’s hook’ reinforces negative stereotypes.”
- Another person might ask, “Why do people continue to use derogatory slang like ‘bent’ to refer to gay individuals?”
24. Bent as a corkscrew
This phrase is a slang term used to imply that someone is gay or homosexual. It suggests that their sexual orientation is not heterosexual or straight.
- For instance, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a corkscrew,” to insinuate that a person is gay.
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ acceptance, someone might argue, “Using phrases like ‘bent as a corkscrew’ promotes harmful stereotypes.”
- Another person might comment, “It’s crucial to challenge and reject language that marginalizes and discriminates against the gay community.”
25. Bent as a nine-dollar note
This phrase is used to describe someone who is gay or homosexual. It implies that their sexual orientation is not straight or heterosexual.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a nine-dollar note,” to suggest that a person is gay.
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, someone might state, “Using phrases like ‘bent as a nine-dollar note’ perpetuates harmful stereotypes.”
- Another person might ask, “Why do people still use derogatory slang like ‘bent’ to describe gay individuals?”
26. Bent as a barrel of fish hooks
This slang phrase is used to describe someone who is gay. It implies that their sexual orientation is not straight.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a barrel of fish hooks,” to indicate that a person is gay.
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, someone might use this phrase to refer to someone who identifies as homosexual.
- Another usage could be, “I’ve known since high school that I was as bent as a barrel of fish hooks.”
27. Bent as a bottle of chips
This slang phrase is used to describe someone who is gay. It implies that their sexual orientation is not straight.
- For instance, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a bottle of chips,” to refer to a person who is gay.
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ representation in media, someone might use this phrase to describe a gay character.
- Another usage could be, “I’ve always known I was bent as a bottle of chips.”
28. Bent as a three-dollar note
This slang phrase is used to describe someone who is gay. It implies that their sexual orientation is not straight.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a three-dollar note,” to indicate that a person is gay.
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, someone might use this phrase to refer to someone who identifies as homosexual.
- Another usage could be, “I’ve known since high school that I was as bent as a three-dollar note.”
29. Bent as a two-bob watch
This slang phrase is used to describe someone who is gay. It implies that their sexual orientation is not straight.
- For instance, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a two-bob watch,” to refer to a person who is gay.
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ representation in media, someone might use this phrase to describe a gay character.
- Another usage could be, “I’ve always known I was bent as a two-bob watch.”
30. Bent as a roundabout
This slang phrase is used to describe someone who is gay. It implies that their sexual orientation is not straight.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a roundabout,” to indicate that a person is gay.
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, someone might use this phrase to refer to someone who identifies as homosexual.
- Another usage could be, “I’ve known since high school that I was as bent as a roundabout.”
31. Bent as a boomerang
This phrase is a slang term used to describe someone who is gay or homosexual. It implies that their sexual orientation is not straight, but instead “bent” or different.
- For example, someone might say, “Did you see that guy? He’s as bent as a boomerang!”
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, a person might say, “It’s important to support and accept people who are bent as a boomerang.”
- Another example could be, “She came out to her friends and family as bent as a boomerang.”
32. Bent as a dog’s hind leg
This phrase is a slang term used to describe someone who is gay or homosexual. It suggests that their sexual orientation is not straight, but instead “bent” or different, using the image of a dog’s hind leg being bent unnaturally.
- For instance, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a dog’s hind leg, but he’s proud of it.”
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ representation in media, a person might say, “We need more characters who are bent as a dog’s hind leg.”
- Another example could be, “She came out to her parents and told them she’s bent as a dog’s hind leg.”
33. Bent as a fish hook
This phrase is a slang term used to describe someone who is gay or homosexual. It suggests that their sexual orientation is not straight, but instead “bent” or different, using the image of a fish hook being curved.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s as bent as a fish hook, and proud of it!”
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, a person might say, “We should celebrate and accept people who are bent as a fish hook.”
- Another example could be, “After years of struggling with his identity, he finally embraced being bent as a fish hook.”
34. Flame
This term is used to describe an effeminate gay man. It implies that the person exhibits stereotypically feminine characteristics or mannerisms.
- For instance, someone might say, “He’s a bit of a flame, always sashaying around.”
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ representation in media, a person might say, “We need more diverse portrayals of gay characters, including flames.”
- Another example could be, “He embraces his flamboyant personality and proudly identifies as a flame.”
35. Rainbow Warrior
This phrase is used to describe someone who is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. It suggests that the person fights for equality and acceptance, similar to a warrior, and uses the symbol of the rainbow flag as a representation of the LGBTQ+ community.
- For example, someone might say, “She’s a true rainbow warrior, always standing up for LGBTQ+ rights.”
- In a conversation about activism, a person might say, “We need more rainbow warriors to create change.”
- Another example could be, “He proudly identifies as a rainbow warrior and fights for equal rights for all LGBTQ+ individuals.”
36. Poof
This term is a derogatory slang for a gay man. It is often used to mock or belittle someone based on their sexual orientation.
- For example, someone might say, “He’s such a poof, always talking about fashion and music.”
- In a homophobic conversation, one might insultingly remark, “I can’t stand those poofs and their flamboyant behavior.”
- A person using this slang might say, “Don’t be such a poof, man up and stop acting so feminine.”
37. Nancy
This term is a slang for an effeminate gay man. It is often used to describe someone who displays stereotypically feminine characteristics.
- For instance, one might say, “He’s a real nancy, always fussing over his appearance.”
- In a conversation about gender norms, someone might say, “Society needs to stop labeling gay men as nancies just because they don’t fit traditional masculine stereotypes.”
- A person using this slang might say, “I can’t stand nancies, I prefer real men.”
38. Lipstick Lesbian
This term refers to a lesbian who expresses femininity and often embraces traditionally feminine styles and behaviors.
- For example, one might say, “She’s a lipstick lesbian, always wearing dresses and makeup.”
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ identities, someone might say, “Lipstick lesbians challenge the idea that all lesbians are butch or masculine.”
- A person identifying as a lipstick lesbian might say, “I love being a lipstick lesbian and expressing my femininity.”
39. Closeted
This term describes someone who is keeping their sexual orientation a secret, usually out of fear or societal pressure.
- For instance, one might say, “He’s still in the closet and hasn’t come out yet.”
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, someone might say, “It’s important to create safe spaces for closeted individuals to feel comfortable expressing their true selves.”
- A person discussing their own experience might say, “I was closeted for years before finally coming out to my friends and family.”
40. Out and proud
This phrase describes someone who openly and confidently identifies as LGBTQ+ and is proud of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- For example, one might say, “She’s out and proud, always advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.”
- In a discussion about coming out, someone might say, “It’s important for LGBTQ+ individuals to feel supported and encouraged to be out and proud.”
- A person describing themselves might say, “I’m out and proud, and I embrace my identity as a gay man.”
41. Ally
An ally is someone who supports and advocates for the rights and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community. Allies may be straight or cisgender individuals who actively work to create an inclusive and accepting environment.
- For example, a person might say, “I’m proud to be an ally and stand up for LGBTQ+ rights.”
- In a conversation about inclusivity, someone might ask, “Are you an ally? What have you done to support the community?”
- A friend might express their support by saying, “I’m here for you and I’m proud to be your ally.”
42. Rainbow flag
The rainbow flag is a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride and is often used to represent the community. Each color of the flag has a specific meaning, such as red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony, and purple for spirit.
- For instance, during Pride Month, you might see rainbow flags displayed in various places to show support for the LGBTQ+ community.
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ rights, someone might say, “The rainbow flag represents the diversity and unity of our community.”
- A person attending a Pride parade might bring a small rainbow flag to wave in celebration.
43. Drag queen
A drag queen is a person, usually male, who dresses in exaggerated feminine clothing and adopts a theatrical persona for entertainment purposes. Drag queens often perform in drag shows or at LGBTQ+ events and are known for their glamorous and extravagant looks.
- For example, “RuPaul is a famous drag queen and host of the reality TV show ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’.”
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ culture, someone might ask, “Have you ever been to a drag show? It’s such a fun experience!”
- A fan of drag queens might say, “I love watching drag queens perform. They are so talented and confident.”
44. Drag king
A drag king is a person, usually female, who dresses in exaggerated masculine clothing and adopts a theatrical persona for entertainment purposes. Drag kings often perform in drag shows or at LGBTQ+ events and are known for challenging gender norms and stereotypes.
- For instance, “Murray Hill is a well-known drag king who has performed in various venues.”
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ representation, someone might say, “Drag kings are an important part of the drag community and deserve more recognition.”
- A person attending a drag show might be excited to see a drag king perform and say, “I’ve heard great things about this drag king. I can’t wait to see their performance!”
45. Pride parade
A pride parade is a public celebration and demonstration of LGBTQ+ pride and rights. It typically includes colorful floats, music, dancing, and participants wearing vibrant outfits to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community.
- For example, “The Pride parade in San Francisco is one of the largest and most well-known in the world.”
- In a conversation about LGBTQ+ visibility, someone might say, “Attending a Pride parade is a powerful way to show solidarity and celebrate diversity.”
- A person planning to attend a Pride parade might ask, “What time does the parade start? I don’t want to miss the opening ceremony!”
46. Coming out
This term refers to the process of disclosing one’s sexual orientation to others, often to friends, family, or the public. Coming out is an important step for many LGBTQ+ individuals in accepting and embracing their identity.
- For example, a person might say, “I’m nervous about coming out to my parents, but I know it’s important for them to know the truth.”
- In a supportive conversation, someone might ask, “When did you first come out?”
- A person discussing LGBTQ+ rights might say, “Coming out stories are powerful and can help create understanding and acceptance.”
47. Stonewall
Stonewall refers to the Stonewall riots that took place in June 1969 in New York City. The riots were a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and are often seen as the catalyst for the modern fight for equality.
- For instance, someone might say, “Stonewall was a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.”
- In a discussion about pride parades, a person might mention, “Pride celebrations commemorate the Stonewall riots.”
- A LGBTQ+ activist might say, “We must remember the sacrifices made at Stonewall and continue the fight for equality.”
48. Safe space
A safe space refers to a physical or virtual place where individuals can feel comfortable and accepted, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. These spaces often promote tolerance, understanding, and open dialogue.
- For example, someone might say, “This LGBTQ+ support group provides a safe space for individuals to share their experiences.”
- In a conversation about inclusivity, a person might ask, “Do you know of any safe spaces where LGBTQ+ youth can seek support?”
- A person organizing an event might advertise, “This event aims to create a safe space for everyone to express themselves freely.”
49. Love is love
Love is love is a phrase often used to express the belief that love knows no gender or sexual orientation. It emphasizes the idea that all love should be celebrated and respected, regardless of societal norms or expectations.
- For instance, someone might say, “I believe in marriage equality because love is love.”
- In a discussion about LGBTQ+ relationships, a person might state, “Love is love, and everyone deserves to experience it.”
- A supporter of LGBTQ+ rights might use the phrase in a social media post, “Proud ally here! Love is love, and I stand with the LGBTQ+ community.”
50. Genderqueer
Genderqueer is a term used by individuals who do not identify exclusively as male or female. It is an umbrella term that encompasses various gender identities that fall outside the binary of male and female.
- For example, someone might say, “I identify as genderqueer because I don’t feel fully male or female.”
- In a discussion about gender diversity, a person might ask, “Can you explain what it means to be genderqueer?”
- A supporter of LGBTQ+ rights might say, “We need to create inclusive spaces that respect and validate genderqueer individuals.”