Queer Dictionary

Welcome to the Queer Dictionary! 

It can be a little tricky to keep up with the latest terms and lingo floating around the queer community. This can be particularly challenging for newcomers and allies of the queer community so we are here to help...it is after all, what we do here at Queer Events.

We've collected terms below that are often used when talking about sexual orientation, gender and queer sub-culture to help us all understand and connect with each other.

As you can imagine there are a lot of terms to include, so over time we will continue to grow this list and include more and more information.

QueerEvents - Queer Dictionary
  • Abrosexuality

    Human Definition

    Abrosexuality is the fluency of sexual preference, much like genderfluid but with which gender(s) you are sexually attracted to.

    Everday Use
    I don't think I ever felt comfortable defining myself by one sexuality but then I realised I was abrosexual.
    Official Definition

    An individual whose sexuality is fluid. While a person's sexual identity can shift in some way throughout their life, an abrosexual person's sexuality may change more frequently, over the course of hours, days, months, or years. It is often considered to be the sexuality equivalent of genderfluid and part of the asexual spectrum.

    The timing of the fluctuations is different for every person; for some the fluctuations may be erratic and for others they may be regular. The sexualities that a person fluctuates between also varies. Some abrosexual people may be fluid between all sexualities, while others may only be fluid between a few.

  • Aegosexuality

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    Aegosexuals might have a sexually appealing fantasy, but they don't find it appealing in real life.

    Everday Use
    John likes the idea of sex, but does not actually want it.
    Official Definition

    A disconnection between oneself and a sexual partner/object of arousal; may involve sexual fantasies, or arousal in response to erotica or pornography, but lacking any desire to be a participant in the sexual activities.

    Aegosexual (formally known as Autochorissexual) is a sexual orientation found within the asexual umbrella. It was coined by Anthony Bogaert in 2012. He used the term "autochorissexual", however, the community feels that this term pathologizes the identity.

  • Allosexual

    Human Definition

    Some asexual-spectrum people use the term “allosexual” to describe anyone who is not asexual, demisexual, or a gray-asexual; i.e., people who regularly experience sexual attraction/desire for others. The prefix “allo-” simply means “other,” so allosexual is a descriptor for someone who is sexual toward other people. The term "allosexual" helps eliminate the idea that being "asexual" is abnormal.

     

    Everday Use
    I think Jace is sexually attracted to Jon. He must be allosexual then.
    Official Definition

    Someone who experiences sexual attraction.

  • Ace

    Human Definition

    A popular nickname for a person who is asexual.

    Everday Use
    I'm an active member of the ace community.
    Official Definition

    A sexual orientation label referencing asexuality. Sometimes called the "Ace Umbrella" to represent the wide spectrum of asexual identities and experiences.

  • Akiosexual

    Human Definition

    An akiosexual person does experience sexual attraction, but they don’t want the attraction returned or for anyone to be attracted to them. 

    If the attraction is returned, their attraction usually fades.

    Everday Use
    Krys is akiosexual. They were attracted to Tina but not since Tina tried to make out with them.
    Official Definition

    A person who experiences sexual attraction but does NOT want it reciprocated under ANY circumstances. Also known as Lithosexual,

  • Apothisexual

    Human Definition

    Someone who finds sex and/or sexual content unsettling and perhaps even disgusting. Like any sexuality, there are often variations on this. Some may find other having sex okay, others are repulsed by any mention of sex even if it doesn't relate to themselves.

    Everday Use
    Carin feels nauseious with unexpected sex scenes in movies, she's apothisexual.
    Official Definition

    Someone under the Asexual umbrella who is sex repulsed. some apothisexuals, they are averse to the idea of engaging in sex themselves, but are fine with sexual activity that does not involve them. Others may be repulsed by the idea of sex in general. Those who are apothisexual typically do not seek out sexual relationships.

     

  • Aromantic

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    A person who is aromantic experiences little to no romantic attraction to anyone.

    Everday Use
    Sally is an aromantic bisexual. She feels sexual attraction to two genders, but does not feel romantic attraction
    Official Definition

    Experiencing little or no romantic attraction to others and/or has a lack of interest in romantic relationships/behavior. Aromanticism exists on a continuum from people who experience no romantic attraction or have any desire for romantic activities, to those who experience low levels, or romantic attraction only under specific conditions, and many of these different places on the continuum have their own identity labels.

  • Asexual

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    A person who does not feel the need to have sex very often, if at all

    Everday Use
    I'm asexual but I still enjoy going on dates.
    Official Definition

    A sexual orientation that refers to a person who experiences little or no sexual attraction and who chooses to call themselves asexual.

    Asexuality exists on a continuum from people who experience no attraction or desire for sexual activities, to those who experience low levels, or only under specific conditions will they experience sexual attractions.

    Ace is a common term used by individuals to refer to themselves as on identity that falls within asexuality.

  • Bi-Curious

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    People of the gender you aren't usually attracted to start to look a little more intriguing than they used to...

    Everday Use
    I use to date Bill but now I like Jenny... I'm not sure if I'm bisexual. I think I might be a little bi-curious
    Official Definition

    A curiosity about having attraction to people of the same gender/sex (similar to questioning).

  • Bisexual

    Human Definition

    A person who is romantically or sexually attracted to more than one gender.

    Everday Use
    Marriage is not the only issue facing gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.
    Official Definition

    A person who has the capacity to have physical, romantic, and/or emotional attractions to those of the same gender, or to those of another gender.

    A bisexual identity does not necessarily equate to equal sexual attraction to only two sexes; commonly, people who have a distinct but not exclusive sexual preference for one sex over the other also identify themselves as bisexual.

  • Coming Out

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    When someone realizes they are part of the queer rainbow and come out of the closet. This can be a solo or sharing activity.

    Everday Use
    My brother came out to me today.
    Official Definition

    A process of revealing more openly to self or others one’s LGBTQ identity.

    The process by which one shares one’s sexuality or gender identity with others (to “come out” to friends, etc.).

    It’s entirely your choice whether or not you come out, and who to. Some people find they prefer not to come out. Others find it makes them a positive role model to others and feel glad that they did.

     
  • Cupiogex

    Human Definition

    Part of the cupiosexual community. Someone who is sexually exclusively attracted to the same sex, but is willing to participate in sexual activities with other genders/sexes (despite no sexual attraction for them).

    Official Definition

    Someone who is sexually exclusively attracted to the same sex, but is willing to participate in sexual activities with other genders/sexes (despite no sexual attraction for them).

  • Cupiosexual

    Human Definition

    Cupiosexuality is apart of the asexual community. It refers to a person who is not sexually attracted towards anyone under any circumstances, but is willing to engage in sex or sex like activities with others and/or have sexual relationships.

    Imagine that you feel neutral about a certain food - let us say cake for the sake of an easy example. Now, let's say you are hungry and you open the fridge and see a piece of cake. There is no other food in the fridge. You eat the piece of cake because you're hungry, but you feel indifferent about the piece of cake (it is not your favorite food but at the same time you don't not like it).

    Everday Use
    I describe myself as cupiosexual.
    Official Definition

    A person who does not exhibit sexual attraction towards anyone under any circumstances, but is willing to engage in sex or sex like activities with others and/or have sexual relationships with someone.

  • Demisexual

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    An emotional connection is required before becoming sexually attracted to another person.

    Everday Use
    I'm far more attracted to emotional connection than physical attraction.
    Official Definition

    A person who requires an emotional connection with someone before feeling any type of sexual attraction.

    Demisexuals will often know someone and have developed a romantic relationship before engaging in any type of sexual activity.

  • Esthesiosexual

    See Also:
    Official Definition

    An asexual spectrum identity. The person has sexual interest, but none of it involve direct penetration. Rather, they prefer outer course (sexual activities that do not involve penetration), or sensual actions.

  • Gay

    Human Definition

    A male who is attracted to other men

    Everday Use
    I am a happy gay man
    Official Definition

    A sexual orientation referring to a male person whose primary attraction is to other male folks

  • Grey-asexual

    Human Definition

    Typically experiences romantic attraction but once in awhile will experience sexual attraction

    Everday Use
    It's not often I feel sexual attraction towards another person.
    Official Definition

    Someone who typically does not experience sexual attraction but from time to time will be attracted to another person.

    This term falls under the Asexual (Ace) Umbrella, This is a catch term for anyone who falls in the 'grey' area between sexual and asexual, this term has also been used for those who fall under the aromantic spectrum.

  • Heterosexism

    Human Definition

    The false assumption that everyone is or should be heterosexual because it is assumed to be the only acceptable way to be. This assumption often leads to discrimination based on sexual orientation; a form of homophobia.

    Everday Use
    Heterosexism is everywhere, it's what we see everyday.
    Official Definition

    The assumption that everyone is heterosexual and that heterosexuality is superior and preferable. The result is discrimination against bisexual, lesbian and gay people that is less overt, and which may be unintentional and unrecognized by the person or organization responsible for the discrimination.

     

  • Heterosexual

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    also known as a straight person.

    Everday Use
    Heterosexuals can be great allies
    Official Definition

    A person who has romantic or sexual attractions only to people of another gender.

  • Homophobia

    Human Definition

    People who have been taught to fear, hate or otherwise feel superior to people who are homosexual (queer). Often homophobia is spread by religious, government or other misinformed groups.

    Everday Use
    The church spreads homophobia in their teachings.
    Official Definition

    Negative attitudes, feelings, or irrational aversion to, fear or hatred of gay, lesbian, or bisexual people and communities, or of behaviours stereotyped as “homosexual.” It is used to signify a hostile psychological state leading to discrimination, harassment or violence against gay, lesbian or bisexual people.

  • Homosexual

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    A person whose sexual preference is members of the same sex.

    Everday Use
    Homosexuals are just like everyone else.
    Official Definition

    A person who is sexually attracted to members of the same sex. Male homosexuals are usually referred to as gays, and females as lesbians.

  • Lesbian

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    A woman who is attracted only to other women.

    Everday Use
    My moms are lesbians
    Official Definition

    A woman who is emotionally, physically, spiritually and/or sexually attracted to women.

  • LGBT2SQQIAAP

    Official Definition

    Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Two-Spirit, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Agender, Pansexual

  • MSM

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    Man who does not consider themselves as gay but are happy to have sex with men

    Everday Use
    I am not gay, I just have sex with other men
    Official Definition

    A man who has sex with men. This term is used to include men who engage in homosexual behaviour but do not identify as gay.

  • Non-Binary

    Human Definition

    Most people – including most transgender people – are either male or female. But some people don't neatly fit into the categories of "man" or "woman," or “male” or “female.” For example, some people have a gender that blends elements of being a man or a woman, or a gender that is different than either male or female. Some people don't identify with any gender. Some people's gender changes over time.

    People whose gender is not male or female use many different terms to describe themselves, with non-binary being one of the most common. Other terms include genderqueer, agender, bigender, and more. None of these terms mean exactly the same thing – but all speak to an experience of gender that is not simply male or female.

    Everday Use
    Oh, that's Jay. They're nonbinary, so they don't go by he/him pronouns, they go by they/them pronouns
    Official Definition

    Non Binary, is a catch-all category for gender identities that are not exclusively masculine or feminine‍—‌identities which are outside the gender binary and cisnormativity. Non Binary people may express a combination of masculinity and femininity, or neither, in their gender expression.

  • Pansexual

    Human Definition

    Someone who finds themselves attracted to people from all the different genders.

    Everday Use
    I'm pansexual, Im attracted to people for reasons outside of their gender
    Official Definition

    A person who has romantic or sexual attractions to people of any gender identity (both binary and non-binary).

  • Polyamory

    Human Definition

    Where instead of 2 people in a relationship there are can be 3, 4 etc.

    Everday Use
    I am in a comitted polyamorous relationship with 2 other people
    Official Definition

    The practice, state or ability of having more than one sexual loving relationship at the same time, with the full knowledge and consent of all partners involved.

  • Queer

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    A term to that includes everyone and all identities under the magical lgbt2q+ rainbow.  This is our favorite way to refer to the entire LGBTT2QQIAAP community.

    Everday Use
    Queer Events helps me be more connected to the queer community
    Official Definition

    An umbrella term used proudly by some people to identify themselves as members of the lesbian, gay, bi, and/or trans communities or cultures.

    Occasionally used by someone who wishes to defy gender or sexual restrictions.

  • Queerplatonic (QPR)

    Official Definition

    Queerplatonic or quasiplatonic relationship, (QPR)  is a term used to describe a relationship that is intimate but not sexual. Some have defined it as a cross between a best-friendship and a romantic relationship. Often used by the Asexual community.

  • Questioning

    Human Definition

    Someone who is not so sure they are the standard type heterosexual.

    Everday Use
    Lately I've been questioning my sexual identity, I think I may be a lesbian.
    Official Definition

    A period where a person explores their own sexual and/or gender identity, reflecting on such things as upbringing, expectations from others, and inner landscape. The person may not be certain if s/he is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or trans and may be trying to figure out how to identify themselves.

  • Sex-Positive

    Human Definition

    A place, person or interaction where you are free and perhaps even encouraged to openly discuss all things sex.

    Everday Use
    I learned so much while in a sex-postive space
    Official Definition

    An attitude that embraces a diversity of forms of consensual human sexuality, and advocates for sex education and safer sex.

  • Sexual Identity

    Official Definition

    Sexual identity as the label that people adopt to signify to others who they are as a sexual being, particularly regarding sexual orientation Most often people have a sexual identity that is the same as their sexual orientation e.g. most heterosexual people identify as straight and most homosexual people identify as 'lesbian' or 'gay'. However there is a large number of people for who their sexual orientation does not match their sexual identity. For some there is a political element to this for e.g. identifying as queer to highlight the fluidity and diversity of gender and sexual orientation.

  • Sexual Orientation

    Human Definition

    The gender a person desires or prefers sexually or romantically

    Everday Use
    Only my lovers know my sexual orientation.
    Official Definition

    Toward whom a person’s sexual desires and drives are oriented – toward only women, or only men, or nobody, or irrespective of gender. It is separate and independent from a person’s gender identity. It can be fluid over time. The identity a person uses to describe their sexual orientation may not reflect their sexual behaviours.

  • WSW

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    A woman who identifies as heterosexual but has sex with women.

    Everday Use
    I'm not a lesbian or bisexual, I just like to have sex with other women sometimes
    Official Definition

    A woman who has sex with women.

  • AFAB (FAAB)

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    The doctor decided the gender of the baby as female based on their parts...

    Everday Use
    I'm not a female but that's what the doctor decided
    Official Definition

    AFAB (FAAB): Assigned Female at Birth - Refers to birth assignment, not one’s gender identity. Assigned Female at Birth refers to how babies are assigned a gender (male, female or intersex) based on anatomical characteristics at the time of their birth.

  • Agender

    Human Definition

    Agender is a term which can be literally translated as 'without gender'. It can be seen either as a non-binary gender identity or as a statement of not having a gender identity.

    Everday Use
    Kye realised that identifying as agender wasn't an immediate realization but a gradual awakening, a recognition that what applied to other girls didn't seem to apply to Kye.
    Official Definition

    A person with no (or very little) connection to the traditional system of gender, no personal alignment with the concepts of either man or woman, and/or someone who sees themselves as existing without gender. Can also refer to a person whose gender identity is genderless or neutral

  • AMAB (MAAB)

    Human Definition

    Gender assigned to a baby based on their physical parts.

    Everday Use
    I'm not a male but that's what the doctor decided
    Official Definition

    Assigned Male at Birth - Refers to birth assignment, not one’s gender identity. Assigned Male/Female at Birth refers to how babies are assigned a gender (male, female or intersex) based on anatomical characteristics at the time of their birth.

  • Androgynous

    Human Definition

    Someone partly male and partly female in appearance; of indeterminate sex.

    Everday Use
    Androgynous fashion is changing perceptions on male beauty.
    Official Definition

    A gender expression that has elements of both masculinity and femininity; also occasionally used in place of “intersex” to describe a person with both female and male anatomy.

  • Cisgender

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    When you feel like your gender matches your biological sex.

    Everday Use
    I am biologically female and I think of myself as a woman.
    Official Definition

    Used to describe people whose gender identity is in harmony with the sex assigned to them at birth.

  • Cissexism

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    When we behave poorly to people who do not present the same as the gender we are expecting them to 'look like'

    Everday Use
    Cissexism has to stop, we cannot keep treating our Trans friends this way
    Official Definition

    A system of oppression that considers cis people to be superior to trans people. It includes harmful beliefs that it is “natural” to be cis and “aberrant” to be trans. Examples include scrutinizing the genders of trans people to more than those of cis people or defining beauty based on how cis people look.

  • Cross-Dresser

    Human Definition

    Usually a heterosexual person who dresses in the clothing of their "opposite" gender.

    Everday Use
    Occasionaly I enjoy cross dressing.
    Official Definition

    A person who, for various reasons, wears gender atypical clothing or occasionally dresses in clothing of the “opposite” gender. They may or may not self-identify as a cross dresser. Cross-dressers don’t associate with the LGBTQ community and don’t see themselves as anything but straight/heterosexual.  

  • Drag Queen / Drag King

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    Someone who dresses in the clothing of the “opposite” gender for performance.

    Everday Use
    I was at a drag show featuring both Drag Queens and Kings.
    Official Definition

    Someone who dresses in the clothing of the “opposite” gender for performance. Drag performers can be of any gender identity or sexual orientation but are typically queer. It is usually polite to refer to a drag queen as "she" when she is in drag, and "he" when he is not and vice versa for the drag kings.

     

  • Gender

    Human Definition

    Gender describes the characteristics that a society or culture delineates as masculine or feminine.

    Everday Use
    Gender is a social construct.
    Official Definition

    Gender refers to the socially constructed characteristics of women and men – such as norms, roles and relationships of and between groups of women and men. It varies from society to society and can be changed.

  • Gender Binary

    Human Definition

    A person can only be either male or female.

    Everday Use
    Zae rebels against the gender binary and identifies as genderqueer.
    Official Definition

    This is the classification of sex and gender into two distinct and disconnected states of masculine and feminine. It discourages people from crossing or mixing gender roles, and from identifying with more than two forms of gender expression. Sometimes in this binary model, "sex", "gender" and "sexuality" are assumed by default to align. For example, when a male is born, gender binarism assumes the male will be masculine in appearance, character traits, and behavior, including having a heterosexual attraction to females.

  • Gender Dysphoria

    Human Definition

    When our body's gender does not match our internal concept of gender. (My parts say I'm female but everything I feel on the inside suggested male. )

    Everday Use
    Many trans individuals experience gender dysphoria.
    Official Definition

    A state of emotional distress caused by how someone's body or the gender they were assigned at birth conflicts with their gender identity. It is a widely recognized medical condition. If untreated, it can lead to severe mental health issues, including debilitating depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation; A term used in psychiatry to refer to the incongruence between an individual’s designated birth sex and their gender identity, with marked dissociation from one’s physical body.

  • Gender Expression

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    How a person chooses to embrace and express a gender.

    Everday Use
    Gender expression allows me to embrace different sides of myself
    Official Definition

    How a person publicly presents or expresses their gender including behaviour and outward appearance such as dress, hair, make-up, body language, voice, chosen name and pronoun.

  • Gender Identity

    Human Definition

    How a person experiences their gender.

    Everday Use
    Jessie's sex is female but his gender identity is male.
    Official Definition

    Each person’s internal and individual experience of gender. It is a person’s sense of being a woman, a man, both, neither or anywhere on the gender spectrum. This sense of self is separate from biological sex assigned at birth and is not related to sexual orientation. Since gender identity is internal, it is not necessarily visible to others.

  • Gender Neutral Pronouns

    Human Definition

    A gender neutral or gender inclusive pronoun is a pronoun which does not associate a gender with the individual who is being discussed.

    Everday Use
    Xe is laughing after I called xem cute.
    Official Definition

    Alternate pronouns that are gender neutral and used by some trans* people. They replace “he” and “she” and “his” and “hers” respectively. Alternatively some people who are not comfortable/do not embrace he/she use the plural pronoun “they/their” as a gender neutral singular pronoun.

    Commonly used gender neutral pronoun usage:

    Ze (or zie) and hir  -   Usage:   Ze laughed    I called hir    Hir eyes gleam    That is hirs    Ze likes hirself

    Ze (or zie) and zir    - Usage:   Ze laughed    I called zir    Zir eyes gleam    That is zirs    Ze likes zirself

    Xe   -                           Usage:   Xe laughed    I called xem    Xyr eyes gleam    That is xyrs    Xe likes xemself

     

  • Gender Role

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    Outdated notions on what a person can and cannot do based solely on their gender

    Everday Use
    Gender roles would suggest that as a Male, I have to be a provider.
    Official Definition

    The oppressive culturally and historically specific expectations and restrictions that are placed on a person based on whether they are medically categorized at birth as male or female.

  • Genderfluid

    Human Definition

    People who identify as “gender fluid,” are a mix of both genders, and/or may feel more male on some days and more female on others.

    Everday Use
    Jamie is genderfluid and like to wear whatever expreses their identity each day.
    Official Definition

    denoting or relating to a person who does not identify themselves as having a fixed gender. They may move back and forth between gender presentations and identifications, or participate in queering of gender by mixing masculine and feminine presentations

  • Genderfuck

    Human Definition

    Someone who intentionally blurs the stereotypical lines of gender in order to provoke a response in people - usually done to promote thought and conversation.

    Everday Use
    I am genderfuck. I enjoy dressing in a skirt and showing off my long beard.
    Official Definition

    This is an identity built around playing with stereotypical gender cues to purposely confuse, or combine a culture’s standard or gender expressions. A person who identifies as genderfuck may wish to remain separate from gender, or may play with the idea of gender.

  • Genderqueer

    Human Definition

    Someone who does not identify as male or female.

    Everday Use
    Atle does not identify as male or female. They embrace being genderqueer.
    Official Definition

    An identity in which people feel that the very substance of their gender lies outside the binary of “male” and “female.” They reject the gender expectations and stereotypes for their birth assigned sex. They may identify and express themselves as “feminine men” or “masculine women” or as androgynous, outside of the categories of “boy/man” or “girl/woman” They may or may not identify as trans, and may use gender neutral pronouns such as ze, hir, hirs, they and them.

  • Intersex

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    A person whose physical parts cannot easily be distinguished as either male or female.

    Everday Use
    Some people are both intersex and transgender.
    Official Definition

    Intersex people are born with sex characteristics (including genitals, gonads and chromosome patterns) that do not fit typical binary notions of male or female bodies. Some intersex persons may be assigned and raised as a girl or boy but then identify with another gender later in life, while most continue to identify with their assigned sex.

  • Misandry

    Human Definition

    The dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against men.

    Everday Use
    Not all feminists believe in misandry.
    Official Definition

    The hatred and denigration of men and characteristics deemed masculine.

  • Misogyny

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    The dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against women.

    Everday Use
    Women only spaces are often attacked by misogynists
    Official Definition

    The hatred and denigration of women and characteristics deemed feminine.

  • Non-Binary

    Human Definition

    Most people – including most transgender people – are either male or female. But some people don't neatly fit into the categories of "man" or "woman," or “male” or “female.” For example, some people have a gender that blends elements of being a man or a woman, or a gender that is different than either male or female. Some people don't identify with any gender. Some people's gender changes over time.

    People whose gender is not male or female use many different terms to describe themselves, with non-binary being one of the most common. Other terms include genderqueer, agender, bigender, and more. None of these terms mean exactly the same thing – but all speak to an experience of gender that is not simply male or female.

    Everday Use
    Oh, that's Jay. They're nonbinary, so they don't go by he/him pronouns, they go by they/them pronouns
    Official Definition

    Non Binary, is a catch-all category for gender identities that are not exclusively masculine or feminine‍—‌identities which are outside the gender binary and cisnormativity. Non Binary people may express a combination of masculinity and femininity, or neither, in their gender expression.

  • Passing

    Human Definition

    Passing refers to a transgender person’s ability to be correctly perceived as the gender they identify as and beyond that, to not be perceived as transgender.

    The problem with the concept of passing is that this implies that there is a right way to be trans as well as that somehow trans people are trying to trick others into not thinking they are trans. Trans folk come in many different shapes and sizes, and everyone's experience of being trans is different. Additionally, not every trans person can afford surgery, not every trans person can even obtain hormones. The challenges to receiving gender-affirming care are very real and even if trans folk do have access to that care, there are some things that no amount of money or surgery will change such as a person's height.

    Everday Use
    The concept of passing is damaging and problematic for the trans community.
    Official Definition

    Passing applies to a transgender individual who is generally perceived as cisgender. Typically, passing involves a mixture of physical gender cues (for example, hair style or clothing) as well as certain behavioral attributes that tend to be culturally associated with a particular gender.

     

  • Reading

    Human Definition

    When you suspect someone is transgender and you begin studying them and their body for signs to confirm your suspicion, this is called reading or clocking. It’s rude and offensive because you’re staring as well as actively trying to discover what’s different about this person instead of treating them normally, and that can be alienating. When a trans person doesn’t pass as cis, they can be read. For some people, this is a big deal, and for others, it’s not. But the bottom line is to simply respect people’s humanity.

    Everday Use
    Reading someone can make them feel like an animal in a zoo.
    Official Definition

    The term 'reading' is used to refer to the process someone uses to try to identify someone as transgender. This is also known as 'clocking'.

  • Sex

    Human Definition

    An identity assigned based on your physical parts.

    Everday Use
    Sex meaning what parts you physically have, not the act
    Official Definition

    The medical classification of people as male, female or intersex, usually assigned at birth based on the appearance of a person’s anatomy. Sex characteristics include chromosomes, hormones, secondary sex characteristics, and other aspects of the body.

  • Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS)

    Human Definition

    Surgery to physically alter your body to match the gender you are on the inside.

    Everday Use
    High numbers of trans people go to Thailand for SRS proceedures.
    Official Definition

    used by some medical professionals to refer to a group of surgical options that alter a person’s biological sex. “Gender confirmation surgery” is considered by many to be a more affirming term. In most cases, one or multiple surgeries are required to achieve legal recognition of gender variance. Some refer to different surgical procedures as “top” surgery and “bottom” surgery to discuss what type of surgery they are having without having to be more explicit.

  • Stealth

    Human Definition

    Going stealth means completely hiding one’s transgender history, not talking about it with anyone, and completely hiding that one has transitioned.

    Additional Notes:

    The reasons for going stealth are many and are as individual as the person making the decision.

    In times past this was what was expected of transgender people if they were to medically transition. It was expected and necessary to leave one’s marriage (if married), move away, socially transition, prove one has successfully done that for one year, then one may get Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), one year after that one may get gender-affirming surgery, then one may move back to where one lived.

    Fully going stealth is no longer a necessary goal for those who seek medical transition, but is still an option that transgender people choose. Transition is not the easiest thing in the world. In all too many cases transgender people lose those they were close to. By going stealth it becomes easier to rebuild connections and one’s life. Going stealth provides the opportunity to live as who one is without a lot of difficult questions. It means being able to gain employment that may otherwise not be available. Going stealth, all too often, protects transgender people from physical violence and murder. Being stealth is an option that can be quite appealing. That said, it is only an option for those who are able to consistently pass as cisgender.

    Today, going stealth is now viewed as a problematic term as it implies that trans people are "tricking" others or engaging in deception. It is also considered a privilege that many trans people cannot access.

    Everday Use
    Dr. Vanderbilt was stealth until her story was published without permission on a sports blog.
    Official Definition

    Stealth is a term used for trans people who 'pass' as their desired gender at all times and no one around them has knowledge of their gender history.

    Folks who go stealth also tend to have removed all contacts and connections to their gender history.

     

  • TERF

    Human Definition

    An acronym for a damaging ideology called Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminism, which is a branch of radicalism that denies the validity of transgender women’s identities as women.     

     

    Everday Use
    Unlike TERFs, many feminists beleive that transwomen are women too.
    Official Definition

    TERF is an acronym for Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist.  Their position denies that trans people's self-affirmed genders and sexes are equally valid as cis-people's self-affirmed genders and sexes. It has a decades-long history of allying with anti-feminist causes in denying trans people access to health care, and other human rights.

  • Trans

    Human Definition

    Denoting or relating to a person whose sense of personal identity and gender does not correspond with their biological sex.

    Everday Use
    We have a large trans community.
    Official Definition

    An umbrella term used for people whose gender identity is not in harmony with their birth assignment, either wholly or partially, or who experience their gender identity as radically different from what is expected of a "man" or "woman." It includes but is not limited to people who identify as transgender, trans woman, trans man, gender non-conforming, gender variant or gender queer. There are many communities that live under this umbrella and there is no single or universal experience of what it means to be trans.

  • Trans Man (FTM)

    Human Definition

    A person

    Everday Use
    Jessie will be at the party tomorrow. He is an awesome person.
    Official Definition

    A female-to-male trans person.

  • Trans Woman (MTF)

    Human Definition

    A person

    Everday Use
    Jane doesn't like to cook. She likes to get take out.
    Official Definition

    A male-to-female trans person.

  • Transition

    Human Definition

    When someone goes through a process of transitioning from one gender to the next. This process is unique to everyone and only the individual can decide what the process looks like.

    Everday Use
    I am transitiong from FTM (female to male)
    Official Definition

    A host of activities that some trans people may pursue to affirm their gender identity. This may include changes to their name, sex designation, dress, the use of specific pronouns, and possibly medically supportive treatments such as hormone therapy, sex-reassignment surgery or other procedures. There is no checklist or average time for a transition process, and no universal goal or endpoint. Each person decides what will meet their needs.

  • Transmisogyny

    Human Definition

    When we behave poorly to people who identify as feminine but were not assigned female at birth.

    Everday Use
    Transmisogyny targets transgender and transsexual women.
    Official Definition

    Negative attitudes, expressed through cultural hate, individual and state violence, and discrimination directed toward trans women, and trans and gender non-conforming people on the feminine end of the gender spectrum.

    Transmisogyny is all about the hatred of the feminine, and it is not limited toward only those who identify as women. It includes transfeminine and feminine-identified genderqueer people, as well as many others who are feminine-of-center but were not assigned female at birth.

  • Transphobia

    Human Definition

    When we behave poorly to people who do not present the same as the gender we are expecting them to 'look like'

    Everday Use
    Transphobia should not be tolerated.
    Official Definition

    An irrational negative response to transgender and intersex people, as well as other forms of gender-bending and gender non-conformity. People who have been taught to fear, hate or otherwise feel superior to people who are trans.

  • Two-Spirit

    Human Definition

    Two-spirit is a First Nations identity of person who has both a masculine and a feminine spirit.

    Everday Use
    The fluid gender identities of the First Nations' Two Spirits were seen as a gift.
    Official Definition

    A cultural and spiritual identity used by some First Nations peoples to describe having both masculine and feminine spirits.  For some, Two-Spirit describes a societal and spiritual role that people played within traditional societies, as mediators, keepers of certain ceremonies, transcending accepted roles of men and women, and filling a role as an established middle gender.

    The term is a translation of the Anishinaabemowin term niizh manidoowag, two spirits. The use of these terms by people who are not descendants of the First Nations is considered cultural appropriation.

  • Ace

    Human Definition

    A popular nickname for a person who is asexual.

    Everday Use
    I'm an active member of the ace community.
    Official Definition

    A sexual orientation label referencing asexuality. Sometimes called the "Ace Umbrella" to represent the wide spectrum of asexual identities and experiences.

  • Bear

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    Bears are typically heavy, hairy lovable gays. They most likely seem like the guy next door and like to sip on a beer and cook delicious food. Bears are loved by everyone.

    Everday Use
    The friendly group of bears explained the rules of roller derby to us.
    Official Definition

    Bear is LGBT slang for those in the bear communities, a subculture in the gay/bisexual male communities and an emerging subset of LGBT communities with events, codes and culture-specific identity. It also describes a physical type.

    Bears tend to have hairy bodies and facial hair; some are heavy-set; some project an image of working-class masculinity in their grooming and appearance, though none of these are requirements or unique indicators. Some bears place importance on presenting a hyper-masculine image and may shun interaction with, and even disdain, men who exhibit effeminacy. The bear concept can function as an identity, an affiliation, and an ideal to live up to, and there is ongoing debate in bear communities about what constitutes a bear.

  • Binding

    Human Definition

    Binding is the use compression garments and other techniques to minimize the appearance of a person's breast.

    Everday Use
    I thought that drag king had no breasts but she was just binding.
    Official Definition

    (Also known as chest-binding). Binding is a technique used to minimize the appearance of a person's breasts. Some transgender men or gender-nonconforming individuals use binders (compression undergarments that look like spandex-y T-shirts) to bind the breasts to the body, creating a flatter chest.

  • Butch

    Human Definition

    Used for either a lesbian who exhibits a stereotypically masculine appearance/behaviour or the person in the dominant role in a lesbian relationship.

    Everday Use
    My butch treats me like a queen.
    Official Definition

    A lesbian who exhibits a stereotypically masculine appearance or behaviour. It can also be used to denote an individual, or the dominant role in a lesbian relationship.  

    The term butch originated in communities of lesbian and bi women, in which more masculine butches typically partnered with more feminine femmes. Because of this, butches are often assumed to be attracted to be sexually attracted to femmes, although this is not always the case. Butch women tend to follow a code of behaviour which has strong elements of traditional chivalry.

    Butch women can present themselves and define "butchness" in a variety of ways. For example, being butch is about traditional masculinity to some butches, while it is about a whole new category of gender to others.

  • Coming Out

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    When someone realizes they are part of the queer rainbow and come out of the closet. This can be a solo or sharing activity.

    Everday Use
    My brother came out to me today.
    Official Definition

    A process of revealing more openly to self or others one’s LGBTQ identity.

    The process by which one shares one’s sexuality or gender identity with others (to “come out” to friends, etc.).

    It’s entirely your choice whether or not you come out, and who to. Some people find they prefer not to come out. Others find it makes them a positive role model to others and feel glad that they did.

     
  • Cub

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    A younger Bear

    Everday Use
    Look at that cub, he's going to make a great bear one day
    Official Definition

    A bear in the making. Cubs are smaller and younger than their Bear counterparts.

  • Dyke

    Human Definition

    A woman who is attracted to (physically/emotionally etc) to other woman.

    Everday Use
    I'm not missing the dyke march this weekend
    Official Definition

    Slang for lesbian. Usually used by younger members of the lesbian community.

  • Femme

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    Feminine-presenting queer woman.

    Everday Use
    That femme has all the butches looking at her tonight.
    Official Definition

    Often used to refer to a feminine-presenting queer woman. Femmes are often not "read" as lesbians or queer unless they are with a butch partner, because they conform to traditional standards of femininity.

  • Flagging

    Human Definition

    A way of visually displaying what you are looking for in a potential sex partner

    Everday Use
    I knew we would be a good match when I saw what they were flagging
    Official Definition

    Also known as the “handkerchief or hanky code” Originated in the 1970’s. Individuals who participated in this form of flagging placed differently colored handkerchiefs in the back pockets of their pants: the left side for dominant sexual partners (tops) and the right side for submissive sexual partners (bottoms). The color provided even more detailed information about the wearer’s sexual preferences.

    Femmes sometimes participate with “Femme-flagging manicures” where the colours parallel the hanky code.

  • Genderfuck

    Human Definition

    Someone who intentionally blurs the stereotypical lines of gender in order to provoke a response in people - usually done to promote thought and conversation.

    Everday Use
    I am genderfuck. I enjoy dressing in a skirt and showing off my long beard.
    Official Definition

    This is an identity built around playing with stereotypical gender cues to purposely confuse, or combine a culture’s standard or gender expressions. A person who identifies as genderfuck may wish to remain separate from gender, or may play with the idea of gender.

  • Lipstick lesbian

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    A lipstick lesbian is a woman who loves other women, but also loves her clothes, makeup and shoes.

    Everday Use
    Amy and Sue are femmes who are also dating. They're lipstick lesbians.
    Official Definition

    Usually refers to a lesbian with a more overtly feminine gender expression. Can be used in a positive or a derogatory way. It is also used to refer to femmes who are attracted to other femmes.

  • MOGAI

    See Also:
    Human Definition

    The acronym for Marginalized Orientations, Gender identities, & Intersex. it’s meant to be an all inclusive umbrella term for asexuals, homosexuals, trans people, and intersex people. It is used as an alternative to LGBT2Q+

    Everday Use
    The MOGAI community in my city is very friendly.
    Official Definition

    The acronym for Marginalized Orientations, Gender identities, And Intersex.

    Marginalized Orientations are orientations that aren't the default. For instance, someone whose sexual orientation is not heterosexual, or someone whose romantic orientation is not heteroromantic.

    Gender Alignment, means that someone's birth assignment didn't align with the person's actual gender.

    Intersex means someone who doesn't fit the norm of what society considers a "male body" or a "female body", without requiring any sort of treatment or surgery

    it’s meant to be an all inclusive umbrella term for asexuals, homosexuals, trans people, and intersex people. It is used as an alternative to LGBT2Q+

  • Poz

    Human Definition

    HIV positive person

    Everday Use
    Jim prefers to meet up with other poz guys.
    Official Definition

    An abbreviation referring to an HIV positive person. It is a term embraced by those who are HIV positive, particularly common in the gay community.

  • Questioning

    Human Definition

    Someone who is not so sure they are the standard type heterosexual.

    Everday Use
    Lately I've been questioning my sexual identity, I think I may be a lesbian.
    Official Definition

    A period where a person explores their own sexual and/or gender identity, reflecting on such things as upbringing, expectations from others, and inner landscape. The person may not be certain if s/he is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or trans and may be trying to figure out how to identify themselves.

  • Stone Butch/Femme

    Human Definition

    Someone who enjoys performing sexual acts on their partner but are not looking for partner to reciprocate certain acts.

    Everday Use
    Stone butches often focus on pleasing their femmes.
    Official Definition

    A person who may or may not desire sexual penetration and/or contact with the genitals or breasts. Stone Butches/Femmes still provide their partners with sexual gratification, and often experience pleasure themselves in doing so. A Stone butch/femme is also receptive to receiving sexual pleasure from her partner in different ways as well.

  • Passing

    Human Definition

    Passing refers to a transgender person’s ability to be correctly perceived as the gender they identify as and beyond that, to not be perceived as transgender.

    The problem with the concept of passing is that this implies that there is a right way to be trans as well as that somehow trans people are trying to trick others into not thinking they are trans. Trans folk come in many different shapes and sizes, and everyone's experience of being trans is different. Additionally, not every trans person can afford surgery, not every trans person can even obtain hormones. The challenges to receiving gender-affirming care are very real and even if trans folk do have access to that care, there are some things that no amount of money or surgery will change such as a person's height.

    Everday Use
    The concept of passing is damaging and problematic for the trans community.
    Official Definition

    Passing applies to a transgender individual who is generally perceived as cisgender. Typically, passing involves a mixture of physical gender cues (for example, hair style or clothing) as well as certain behavioral attributes that tend to be culturally associated with a particular gender.

     

  • Reading

    Human Definition

    When you suspect someone is transgender and you begin studying them and their body for signs to confirm your suspicion, this is called reading or clocking. It’s rude and offensive because you’re staring as well as actively trying to discover what’s different about this person instead of treating them normally, and that can be alienating. When a trans person doesn’t pass as cis, they can be read. For some people, this is a big deal, and for others, it’s not. But the bottom line is to simply respect people’s humanity.

    Everday Use
    Reading someone can make them feel like an animal in a zoo.
    Official Definition

    The term 'reading' is used to refer to the process someone uses to try to identify someone as transgender. This is also known as 'clocking'.

  • Stealth

    Human Definition

    Going stealth means completely hiding one’s transgender history, not talking about it with anyone, and completely hiding that one has transitioned.

    Additional Notes:

    The reasons for going stealth are many and are as individual as the person making the decision.

    In times past this was what was expected of transgender people if they were to medically transition. It was expected and necessary to leave one’s marriage (if married), move away, socially transition, prove one has successfully done that for one year, then one may get Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), one year after that one may get gender-affirming surgery, then one may move back to where one lived.

    Fully going stealth is no longer a necessary goal for those who seek medical transition, but is still an option that transgender people choose. Transition is not the easiest thing in the world. In all too many cases transgender people lose those they were close to. By going stealth it becomes easier to rebuild connections and one’s life. Going stealth provides the opportunity to live as who one is without a lot of difficult questions. It means being able to gain employment that may otherwise not be available. Going stealth, all too often, protects transgender people from physical violence and murder. Being stealth is an option that can be quite appealing. That said, it is only an option for those who are able to consistently pass as cisgender.

    Today, going stealth is now viewed as a problematic term as it implies that trans people are "tricking" others or engaging in deception. It is also considered a privilege that many trans people cannot access.

    Everday Use
    Dr. Vanderbilt was stealth until her story was published without permission on a sports blog.
    Official Definition

    Stealth is a term used for trans people who 'pass' as their desired gender at all times and no one around them has knowledge of their gender history.

    Folks who go stealth also tend to have removed all contacts and connections to their gender history.

     

Food for Queers Community Program

Food for Queers
Stay Safe. Not Hungry

Providing support for 2SLGBTQ+ folks experiencing food insecurities within the city of London

No questions. No contact. Just Support!

Future is Queer! #QueerEvents