Click here for the Essentials to avoid common missteps
A
Assigned Female At Birth (AFAB) or Female-Assigned-at-Birth (FAAB)
1) An individual assigned female at birth.
2) (pronounced ā-fab) Acronym meaning Assigned Female at Birth. AFAB people may or may not identify as female some or all of the time. AFAB is a useful term for educating about issues that may happen to these bodies without connecting to womanhood or femaleness.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Assigned Male At Birth (AMAB) or Male-Assigned-at-Birth (MAAB)
1) An individual assigned male at birth.
2) (pronounced ā-mab) Acronym meaning Assigned Male at Birth. AMAB people may or may not identify as male some or all of the time . AMAB is a useful term for educating about issues that may happen to these bodies without connecting to manhood or maleness.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Agender
A term used to describe people who do not identify with any gender at all. Agender people may also identify as nonbinary
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Allosexual
An adjective used to describe a person who experiences sexual attraction to others, and is not asexual (e.g., allosexual person).
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
Ally
An adjective used to describe a straight and/or cisgender person who supports and advocates for LGBTQ people. Plural is allies.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Androgynous
1) A term used to describe people whose gender expression is a mix of masculine and feminine traits
2) Having physical elements of both femininity and masculinity, whether expressed through sex, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation. Androgyne (pronounced an-druh-jain ) is another term for an androgynous individual.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Androsexual/Androphilic
An adjective used to describe a person who is primarily sexually, aesthetically, and/or romantically attracted to masculinity.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
Aromantic
1) An adjective used to describe a person who does not experience romantic attraction. Aromantic is an umbrella term that can also include people who are demiromantic, meaning a person who does not experience romantic attraction until a strong emotional or sexual connection is formed with a partner.
2) Sometimes abbreviated as aro (pronounced ā-row), the term refers to an individual who does not experience romantic attraction. Aromantic people exist on a spectrum of romantic attraction and can use terms such as gray aromantic or grayromantic to describe their place within that spectrum. Aromantic people can experience sexual attraction.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Asexual
1) An adjective used to describe a person who does not experience sexual attraction (e.g., asexual person). Sometimes shortened to “ace.” Asexual is an umbrella term that can also include people who are demisexual, meaning a person who does experience some sexual attraction, but only in certain situations, for example, after they have formed a strong emotional or romantic connection with a partner. (For more information, visit asexuality.org )
2) Sometimes abbreviated as ace, the term refers to an individual who does not experience sexual attraction. Each asexual person experiences relationships, attraction, and arousal differently. Asexuality is distinct from chosen behavior such as celibacy or sexual abstinence; asexuality is a sexual orientation that does not necessarily entail specific chosen behaviors. Asexual people exist on a spectrum of sexual attraction and can use terms such as gray asexual or gray ace to describe themselves.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Video Explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qF1DTK4U1AM
B
Bi-gender
1) Having two genders, exhibiting characteristics of masculine and feminine roles.
2) While gender is now widely understood to be a spectrum and not on a binary, this is a term used to identify a person whose gender identity encompasses two genders, (often man and woman, but not exclusively) or is moving between two genders. More commonly used terms include gender-fluid or gender-queer which better reflect the spectrum of all genders.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Binary
1)A system of numbers that uses only 0 and 1:
2)something such as a system or description that has two parts, in which everything is either one thing or the other. Source
3)Refers to someone who fits into the gender binary.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Binding
1)The process of reducing the appearance of breasts by wrapping or compressing the chest using various methods. Binding can be very gender-affirming for many people, however it must be done safely. Learn more about safe binding.
2)The process of tightly wrapping one’s chest in order to minimize the appearance of having breasts, often by using a binder. Note: One must bind themselves carefully, with appropriate materials, and for reasonable periods of time in order to avoid discomfort and potential negative health impacts. Unsafe binding can lead to negative health outcomes, such as broken ribs and trouble breathing.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Biological Essentialism
Reliance or weaponization of biology in an attempt to disprove trans people’s genders. Common bioessentialist arguments reduce people to their chromosomes (though there are more than 30 chromosome combinations that people have); their genitalia (though there are many natural variations; or their binary gender (though gender and sex are not binary).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Bi-phobia
1)Oppression, discrimination and hatred toward those who identify as bisexual, pansexual, and omnisexual. Biphobia can be present in both the LGBTQ+ and broader community. See also Monosexism.
2) Can be expressed in comments that cast doubts about the legitimacy of bisexuality as an orientation. Implying that it is not real, “just a phase” or a cover for someone not ready to come out as gay.
3) Intolerance, bias, or prejudice. Often stemming from lack of knowledge about bisexual people and the issues they face. This can be alleviated with education and support. Related to homophobia and transphobia
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Bisexual/Bi
A person whose primary sexual and affection orientation is toward people of the same and other genders, or towards people regardless of their gender.
2) Commonly referred to as bi or bi+. According to bi+ educator and advocate Robyn Ochs, the term refers to a person who acknowledges in themselves the potential to be attracted--romantically, emotionally and/or sexually--to people of more than one gender, not necessarily at the same time, in the same way, or in the same degree. The "bi" in bisexual can refer to attraction to genders similar to and different from one's own.
3) People who identify as bisexual need not have had equal sexual or romantic experience—or equal levels of attraction—with people across genders, nor any experience at all; attraction and self-identification determines orientation
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Body Image
How a person feels, acts, and thinks about their body. Attitudes about our own body and bodies in general are shaped by our communities, families, cultures, media, and our own perceptions.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Body Policing
Any behavior which (indirectly or directly, intentionally or unintentionally) attempts to correct or control a person's actions regarding their own physical body, frequently with regards to gender expression or size.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Bottom Surgery
Surgery performed on an individual’s reproductive system as a part of gender-affirming surgery. Not all trans people undergo medical interventions as part of their transition. As with any other aspect of transition, trans people retain the right not to discuss their surgical history, and surgery does not define gender.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Butch
1) A gender expression that fits societal definitions of masculinity. Usually used by queer women and trans people, particularly by lesbians. Some consider “butch” to be its own gender identity.
2) A person who is masculine of center in dress, attitude, and/or presentation. It is often, but not exclusively, used in a lesbian context. Often on a spectrum from {butch to femme}
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
1) Having two genders, exhibiting characteristics of masculine and feminine roles.
2) While gender is now widely understood to be a spectrum and not on a binary, this is a term used to identify a person whose gender identity encompasses two genders, (often man and woman, but not exclusively) or is moving between two genders. More commonly used terms include gender-fluid or gender-queer which better reflect the spectrum of all genders.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Binary
1)A system of numbers that uses only 0 and 1:
2)something such as a system or description that has two parts, in which everything is either one thing or the other. Source
3)Refers to someone who fits into the gender binary.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Binding
1)The process of reducing the appearance of breasts by wrapping or compressing the chest using various methods. Binding can be very gender-affirming for many people, however it must be done safely. Learn more about safe binding.
2)The process of tightly wrapping one’s chest in order to minimize the appearance of having breasts, often by using a binder. Note: One must bind themselves carefully, with appropriate materials, and for reasonable periods of time in order to avoid discomfort and potential negative health impacts. Unsafe binding can lead to negative health outcomes, such as broken ribs and trouble breathing.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Biological Essentialism
Reliance or weaponization of biology in an attempt to disprove trans people’s genders. Common bioessentialist arguments reduce people to their chromosomes (though there are more than 30 chromosome combinations that people have); their genitalia (though there are many natural variations; or their binary gender (though gender and sex are not binary).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Bi-phobia
1)Oppression, discrimination and hatred toward those who identify as bisexual, pansexual, and omnisexual. Biphobia can be present in both the LGBTQ+ and broader community. See also Monosexism.
2) Can be expressed in comments that cast doubts about the legitimacy of bisexuality as an orientation. Implying that it is not real, “just a phase” or a cover for someone not ready to come out as gay.
3) Intolerance, bias, or prejudice. Often stemming from lack of knowledge about bisexual people and the issues they face. This can be alleviated with education and support. Related to homophobia and transphobia
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Bisexual/Bi
A person whose primary sexual and affection orientation is toward people of the same and other genders, or towards people regardless of their gender.
2) Commonly referred to as bi or bi+. According to bi+ educator and advocate Robyn Ochs, the term refers to a person who acknowledges in themselves the potential to be attracted--romantically, emotionally and/or sexually--to people of more than one gender, not necessarily at the same time, in the same way, or in the same degree. The "bi" in bisexual can refer to attraction to genders similar to and different from one's own.
3) People who identify as bisexual need not have had equal sexual or romantic experience—or equal levels of attraction—with people across genders, nor any experience at all; attraction and self-identification determines orientation
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Body Image
How a person feels, acts, and thinks about their body. Attitudes about our own body and bodies in general are shaped by our communities, families, cultures, media, and our own perceptions.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Body Policing
Any behavior which (indirectly or directly, intentionally or unintentionally) attempts to correct or control a person's actions regarding their own physical body, frequently with regards to gender expression or size.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Bottom Surgery
Surgery performed on an individual’s reproductive system as a part of gender-affirming surgery. Not all trans people undergo medical interventions as part of their transition. As with any other aspect of transition, trans people retain the right not to discuss their surgical history, and surgery does not define gender.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Butch
1) A gender expression that fits societal definitions of masculinity. Usually used by queer women and trans people, particularly by lesbians. Some consider “butch” to be its own gender identity.
2) A person who is masculine of center in dress, attitude, and/or presentation. It is often, but not exclusively, used in a lesbian context. Often on a spectrum from {butch to femme}
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
C
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Chosen Family
Also known as Found Family, people who support an LGBTQ+ person, who are not biologically related, and who often fill the role of the biological family if an LGBTQ+ person’s family is not supportive of them.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Cisgender
1) A term used to describe people whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, a person who was assigned female at birth and identifies as female is cisgender
2) Cisgender (pronounced sis-gender): A term used to refer to an individual whose gender identity aligns with the one associated with the sex assigned to them at birth. The prefix cis- comes from the Latin word for “on the same side as.” People who are both cisgender and heterosexual are sometimes referred to as cishet (pronounced “cis-het”) individuals. The term cisgender is not a slur. People who are not trans should avoid calling themselves “normal” and instead refer to themselves as cisgender or cis.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Civil Union
Historically used in the U.S. to describe state-based relationship recognition for same-sex couples that offered some or all of the state rights, protections, and responsibilities of marriage, but none of the federal rights. While many Western countries (including the United States) have now legalized marriage equality, others only legally recognize same-sex relationships through civil unions or other legal partnerships.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
Cisnormativity
1) Attitudes and behaviors that incorrectly assume gender is binary, ignoring genders besides women and men, and that people should align with conventional expectations of society for gender identity and gender expression.
2)Cisnormativity often combines with heteronormativity to create societal expectations of behavior.
For example, someone assigned female at birth is expected to:
Cissexism/Genderism
1) Prejudice, stereotyping, or discrimination on the basis of sex, specifically towards transgender and gender-expansive people (see Transphobia).
2) The pervasive system of discrimination and exclusion founded on the belief that there are, and should be, only two genders and that one’s gender or most aspects of it, are inevitably tied to assigned sex.
This system oppresses people whose gender and/or gender expression falls outside of cis-normative constructs.
Within cissexism, cisgender people are the dominant group and trans/gender non-conforming people are the oppressed group.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Closeted
Describes a person who is not open about their sexual orientation.
Better to simply refer to someone as "not out" about being LGBTQ.
People may be "out" to some people in their life, but not "out" to others due to fear of rejection, harassment, violence, losing one’s job, or other concerns.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Coming Out
Is the process of voluntarily sharing one's sexual orientation and/or gender identity with others. This is unique for each individual and there is no right or wrong way to come out.
The term “coming out” has also been broadened to include other pieces of potentially stigmatized personal information.
Terms also used that correlate with this action are: "Being out" which means not concealing one's sexual orientation or gender identity, and "Outing", a term used for making public the sexual orientation or gender identity of someone who would prefer to keep this a secret.
Not sharing one’s LGBTQ+ identity publicly is sometimes referred to as being “in the closet” or Closeted. (See above)
2) For LGBTQ+ people, coming out is the process of self-identifying and self-acceptance that entails the sharing of their identity with others. Sometimes referred to as disclosing. Individuals often recognize a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/gender-expansive, or queer identity within themselves first, and then might choose to reveal it to others.
There are many different degrees of being "out", and coming out is a lifelong process. Coming out can be an incredibly personal and transformative experience. It is critical to respect where each person is within their process of self-identification, and up to each person, individually, to decide if and when and to whom to come out or disclose.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Cross Dresser
A word to describe a person who dresses, at least partially, as a member of a gender other than their assigned sex; carries no implications of sexual orientation or gender identity. Has replaced “Transvestite.”
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Culture
A learned set of values, beliefs, customs, norms, and perceptions shared by a group of people that provide a general framework for living and patterns for interpreting life.
“Culture is those deep, common, unstated, learned experiences which members of a given culture share, which they communicate without knowing, and which form the backdrop against which all other events are judged.” (E. Hall.)
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Cultural Humility
An approach to engagement across differences that acknowledges systems of oppression and embodies the following key practices:
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Also known as Found Family, people who support an LGBTQ+ person, who are not biologically related, and who often fill the role of the biological family if an LGBTQ+ person’s family is not supportive of them.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Cisgender
1) A term used to describe people whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, a person who was assigned female at birth and identifies as female is cisgender
2) Cisgender (pronounced sis-gender): A term used to refer to an individual whose gender identity aligns with the one associated with the sex assigned to them at birth. The prefix cis- comes from the Latin word for “on the same side as.” People who are both cisgender and heterosexual are sometimes referred to as cishet (pronounced “cis-het”) individuals. The term cisgender is not a slur. People who are not trans should avoid calling themselves “normal” and instead refer to themselves as cisgender or cis.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Civil Union
Historically used in the U.S. to describe state-based relationship recognition for same-sex couples that offered some or all of the state rights, protections, and responsibilities of marriage, but none of the federal rights. While many Western countries (including the United States) have now legalized marriage equality, others only legally recognize same-sex relationships through civil unions or other legal partnerships.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
Cisnormativity
1) Attitudes and behaviors that incorrectly assume gender is binary, ignoring genders besides women and men, and that people should align with conventional expectations of society for gender identity and gender expression.
2)Cisnormativity often combines with heteronormativity to create societal expectations of behavior.
For example, someone assigned female at birth is expected to:
- Have a body that is considered “female” by the dominant culture,
- Identify as a girl or woman,
- Act feminine and fulfill the roles associated with girls and/or women,
- Be romantically and sexually attracted to men,
- being in a monogamous relationship with someone of the opposite assigned sex at birth.
Cissexism/Genderism
1) Prejudice, stereotyping, or discrimination on the basis of sex, specifically towards transgender and gender-expansive people (see Transphobia).
2) The pervasive system of discrimination and exclusion founded on the belief that there are, and should be, only two genders and that one’s gender or most aspects of it, are inevitably tied to assigned sex.
This system oppresses people whose gender and/or gender expression falls outside of cis-normative constructs.
Within cissexism, cisgender people are the dominant group and trans/gender non-conforming people are the oppressed group.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Closeted
Describes a person who is not open about their sexual orientation.
Better to simply refer to someone as "not out" about being LGBTQ.
People may be "out" to some people in their life, but not "out" to others due to fear of rejection, harassment, violence, losing one’s job, or other concerns.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Coming Out
Is the process of voluntarily sharing one's sexual orientation and/or gender identity with others. This is unique for each individual and there is no right or wrong way to come out.
The term “coming out” has also been broadened to include other pieces of potentially stigmatized personal information.
Terms also used that correlate with this action are: "Being out" which means not concealing one's sexual orientation or gender identity, and "Outing", a term used for making public the sexual orientation or gender identity of someone who would prefer to keep this a secret.
Not sharing one’s LGBTQ+ identity publicly is sometimes referred to as being “in the closet” or Closeted. (See above)
2) For LGBTQ+ people, coming out is the process of self-identifying and self-acceptance that entails the sharing of their identity with others. Sometimes referred to as disclosing. Individuals often recognize a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/gender-expansive, or queer identity within themselves first, and then might choose to reveal it to others.
There are many different degrees of being "out", and coming out is a lifelong process. Coming out can be an incredibly personal and transformative experience. It is critical to respect where each person is within their process of self-identification, and up to each person, individually, to decide if and when and to whom to come out or disclose.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Cross Dresser
A word to describe a person who dresses, at least partially, as a member of a gender other than their assigned sex; carries no implications of sexual orientation or gender identity. Has replaced “Transvestite.”
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Culture
A learned set of values, beliefs, customs, norms, and perceptions shared by a group of people that provide a general framework for living and patterns for interpreting life.
“Culture is those deep, common, unstated, learned experiences which members of a given culture share, which they communicate without knowing, and which form the backdrop against which all other events are judged.” (E. Hall.)
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Cultural Humility
An approach to engagement across differences that acknowledges systems of oppression and embodies the following key practices:
- a lifelong commitment to self-evaluation and self-critique,
- a desire to fix power imbalances where none ought to exist,
- aspiring to develop partnerships with people and groups who advocate for others on a systemic level.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
D
Dead name (noun)
A name that a transgender person (= a person whose gender does not match the body they were born with) or non-binary person (= a person who has a gender that is not male or female) was called by that they no longer use because it matched the gender they were said to have at birth:
(ex) My dead-name was Steven, Moving forward please now call me Stephanie.
Many transgender people find their dead-names emotionally triggering and painful to hear.
Among trans and queer people, names you no longer use are often called "dead names" or "birth names."
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/dead-name
Dead-name (verb)
Calling a a transgender person or non-binary person by the name that they no longer use, because it matched the gender they were said to have at birth:
(ex)
Demi-Gender
A person whose gender identity is only partly female or male, regardless of their assigned sex at birth
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Demiromantic/Demisexual
Only feeling romantic or sexual attraction after establishing a deep emotional bond with a person.
This is distinct from the experience of feeling romantic or sexual attraction but choosing not to pursue a relationship until after such a bond has been formed
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Disclosure
A word that some people use to describe the act or process of revealing one’s gender identity to another person in a specific instance. Some find the term offensive, implying the need to disclose something shameful, and prefer to use the term coming out, whereas others find coming out offensive, and prefer to use disclosure.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Domestic Partnership
Civil/legal recognition of a committed relationship between two people that sometimes extends limited legal protections to them
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
Drag/Drag King/Drag Queen
1.The theatrical performance of one or multiple genders via dressing in the clothing of a different gender, or in a manner different from how one would usually dress. Drag queens perform in distinctly feminine attire. Drag kings perform in distinctly masculine attire. Drag is a form of gender expression and is not an indication of gender identity. Individuals who dress in drag may or may not consider themselves to be transgender. They may identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, straight or some other sexual orientation.
Source: https://www.identiversity.org/terms/drag-drag-king-drag-queen
2) A type of art/entertainment where people dress up and perform, often in highly stylized ways. The term originated as British theater slang in the 19th century and was used to describe women’s clothing worn by men.
Source: https://transequality.org/issues/resources/understanding-drag
Dyadic
A person who is not intersex—i.e., does not possess variations of sex characteristics involving chromosomes, the reproductive system, and other aspects of one’s physiology. Dyadic people make up a majority of the global population, but non-dyadic people also exist in large numbers throughout the world.
Source: https://translifeline.org/resource/dyadic/
A name that a transgender person (= a person whose gender does not match the body they were born with) or non-binary person (= a person who has a gender that is not male or female) was called by that they no longer use because it matched the gender they were said to have at birth:
(ex) My dead-name was Steven, Moving forward please now call me Stephanie.
Many transgender people find their dead-names emotionally triggering and painful to hear.
Among trans and queer people, names you no longer use are often called "dead names" or "birth names."
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/dead-name
Dead-name (verb)
Calling a a transgender person or non-binary person by the name that they no longer use, because it matched the gender they were said to have at birth:
(ex)
- Why does the media insist on dead-naming trans people?
- He was upset at having been dead-named all over the Internet.
- When a person is dead-named, it not only outs them but can also put them in a potentially dangerous situation
Demi-Gender
A person whose gender identity is only partly female or male, regardless of their assigned sex at birth
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Demiromantic/Demisexual
Only feeling romantic or sexual attraction after establishing a deep emotional bond with a person.
This is distinct from the experience of feeling romantic or sexual attraction but choosing not to pursue a relationship until after such a bond has been formed
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Disclosure
A word that some people use to describe the act or process of revealing one’s gender identity to another person in a specific instance. Some find the term offensive, implying the need to disclose something shameful, and prefer to use the term coming out, whereas others find coming out offensive, and prefer to use disclosure.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Domestic Partnership
Civil/legal recognition of a committed relationship between two people that sometimes extends limited legal protections to them
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
Drag/Drag King/Drag Queen
1.The theatrical performance of one or multiple genders via dressing in the clothing of a different gender, or in a manner different from how one would usually dress. Drag queens perform in distinctly feminine attire. Drag kings perform in distinctly masculine attire. Drag is a form of gender expression and is not an indication of gender identity. Individuals who dress in drag may or may not consider themselves to be transgender. They may identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, straight or some other sexual orientation.
Source: https://www.identiversity.org/terms/drag-drag-king-drag-queen
2) A type of art/entertainment where people dress up and perform, often in highly stylized ways. The term originated as British theater slang in the 19th century and was used to describe women’s clothing worn by men.
Source: https://transequality.org/issues/resources/understanding-drag
Dyadic
A person who is not intersex—i.e., does not possess variations of sex characteristics involving chromosomes, the reproductive system, and other aspects of one’s physiology. Dyadic people make up a majority of the global population, but non-dyadic people also exist in large numbers throughout the world.
Source: https://translifeline.org/resource/dyadic/
E
Enby
A slang term used for nonbinary. Enby is the phonetic pronunciation of “NB,” an abbreviation for nonbinary.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Endocrinologist:
A medical professional specializing in the endocrine system and its secretions (hormones). Some transgender people undergoing medical transition may see an endocrinologist to access or adjust hormone replacement therapy.
Source: https://translifeline.org/resource/endocrinologist/
Ethnicity
A social construct that divides people into smaller social groups based on characteristics such as shared sense of group membership, values, behavioral patterns, language, political and economic interests, history and ancestral geographical base.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Euphoria
A feeling of extreme happiness or confidence. See “Gender Euphoria”
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/euphoria
Egg
1) The term egg is an internet slang term used to describe transgender individuals who are not yet aware of their gender identity or are in denial about being transgender. The term is often used in online communities as a way to describe the process of coming to terms with one’s gender identity. It’s important to note that the term egg is not a clinical term and is not recognized by medical professionals. It is simply a slang term used by some members of the transgender community
2) Sometimes associated with someone in denial of their gender-related feelings. One’s eventual discovery of their trans identity may be referred to as their “egg cracking” or “hatching.”
Source: https://rcsgd.sa.ucsb.edu/transucsb/trans-glossary
A slang term used for nonbinary. Enby is the phonetic pronunciation of “NB,” an abbreviation for nonbinary.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Endocrinologist:
A medical professional specializing in the endocrine system and its secretions (hormones). Some transgender people undergoing medical transition may see an endocrinologist to access or adjust hormone replacement therapy.
Source: https://translifeline.org/resource/endocrinologist/
Ethnicity
A social construct that divides people into smaller social groups based on characteristics such as shared sense of group membership, values, behavioral patterns, language, political and economic interests, history and ancestral geographical base.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Euphoria
A feeling of extreme happiness or confidence. See “Gender Euphoria”
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/euphoria
Egg
1) The term egg is an internet slang term used to describe transgender individuals who are not yet aware of their gender identity or are in denial about being transgender. The term is often used in online communities as a way to describe the process of coming to terms with one’s gender identity. It’s important to note that the term egg is not a clinical term and is not recognized by medical professionals. It is simply a slang term used by some members of the transgender community
2) Sometimes associated with someone in denial of their gender-related feelings. One’s eventual discovery of their trans identity may be referred to as their “egg cracking” or “hatching.”
Source: https://rcsgd.sa.ucsb.edu/transucsb/trans-glossary
F
Femme
1)Historically used in the lesbian community to refer to a feminine lesbian, it is being increasingly used by other LGBTQIA people to describe gender expressions that reclaim and disrupt traditional constructs of femininity.
2)A person who is feminine of center in dress, attitude, and/or presentation. It is often, but not exclusively, used in a lesbian context. Often on a spectrum from (butch to femme) or (stud to femme).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
FTM
1) Female to Male. Generally used to refer to anyone assigned female at birth whose affirmed gender identity or expression is masculine all or part of the time. Some people prefer the term ‘transitioning to male’ (or ‘male,’ ‘man’ or ‘trans man’), as this does not use misgendering language. This term is not used as often in the 2020s, but may be important in certain (e.g., medical) contexts.
2)An abbreviation of Female to Male; a transgender man.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
1)Historically used in the lesbian community to refer to a feminine lesbian, it is being increasingly used by other LGBTQIA people to describe gender expressions that reclaim and disrupt traditional constructs of femininity.
2)A person who is feminine of center in dress, attitude, and/or presentation. It is often, but not exclusively, used in a lesbian context. Often on a spectrum from (butch to femme) or (stud to femme).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
FTM
1) Female to Male. Generally used to refer to anyone assigned female at birth whose affirmed gender identity or expression is masculine all or part of the time. Some people prefer the term ‘transitioning to male’ (or ‘male,’ ‘man’ or ‘trans man’), as this does not use misgendering language. This term is not used as often in the 2020s, but may be important in certain (e.g., medical) contexts.
2)An abbreviation of Female to Male; a transgender man.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
G
Gay
1)At times, “gay” is used to refer to all people, regardless of sex, who have their primary sexual and or romantic attractions to people of the same sex. The term can also exclusively refer to men who are emotionally, romantically, sexually, affectionately, or relationally attracted to other men, or who identify as members of the gay community. Lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender individuals may feel excluded by the term “gay.”
Source: https://www.montclair.edu/lgbtq-center/lgbtq-resources/terminology/
2) An term used to describe people who are emotionally, romantically, and/or physically attracted to people of the same gender (e.g., gay man, gay people). In contemporary contexts, lesbian is often a preferred term for women, though many women use the term gay to describe themselves. People who are gay need not have had any sexual experience. Attraction and self-identification determines sexual orientation, not the gender or sexual orientation of one’s partner. The term should not be used as an umbrella term for LGBTQ+ people, e.g. “the gay community,” because it excludes other sexual orientations and genders. Avoid using gay in a disparaging manner, e.g. “that’s so gay,” as a synonym for bad
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gayby
A person with one or more LGBTQ+ parent or caregiver. Typically, a term used for self identification only.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender
the socially constructed roles, behaviors, activities, and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for different genders. In a human context, the distinction between gender and sex reflects the usage of these terms: Sex refers to the biological status of being male, female, or intersex, whereas gender implies the psychological, behavioral, social, and cultural aspects of gender (i.e., masculinity, femininity, nonbinary, nonconforming, or other gender).
in linguistics, a grammatical category in inflected languages that governs the agreement between nouns and pronouns and adjectives.
Source: https://dictionary.apa.org/gender
Gender-Affirming Surgery (GAS)
Surgical procedures that can help people adjust their bodies to match their innate gender identity more closely. Used interchangeably with gender affirmation, gender confirmation, and gender-confirming surgery. Not every transgender person will desire or have resources for gender-affirming surgery. Use this term in place of the older term sex change. Also sometimes referred to as gender reassignment surgery, genital reconstruction surgery, or medical transition. (See Top Surgery and Bottom Surgery).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Binary
The dis-proven concept that there are only two genders, male and female, and that everyone must be one or the other. Also often misused to assert that gender is biologically determined. This concept also reinforces the idea that men and women are opposites and have different roles in society (see Gender Roles)
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Dysphoria
A medical diagnosis used to describe the distress that can arise from a mismatch between a person’s gender identity and the sex they were assigned at birth. Gender dysphoria is often treated with gender-affirming care, such as hormone therapy and surgery.
Source: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/gender-dysphoria/what-is-gender-dysphoria
Gender Euphoria
A euphoric feeling often experienced when one’s gender is recognized and respected by others, when one’s body aligns with one’s gender, or when one expresses themselves in accordance with their gender. Focusing on gender euphoria instead of gender dysphoria shifts focus towards the positive aspects of being transgender or gender expansive.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Expansive
An umbrella term sometimes used to describe people who expand notions of gender expression and identity beyond perceived or expected societal gender norms. Some gender-expansive individuals identify as a mix of genders, some identify more binarily as a man or a woman, and some identify as no gender (see Agender). Gender-expansive people might feel that they exist among genders, as on a spectrum, or beyond the notion of the man/woman binary paradigm. Sometimes gender-expansive people use gender-neutral pronouns (see Pronouns), but people can exist as any gender while using any pronouns. They may or may not be comfortable with their bodies as they are, regardless of how they express their gender.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender-fluid
Describes a person who does not consistently adhere to one fixed gender and who may move among genders.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender-queer
Refers to individuals who blur preconceived boundaries of gender in relation to the gender binary (See Gender Binary); they can also reject commonly held ideas of static gender identities. Sometimes used as an umbrella term in much the same way that the term queer is used, but only refers to gender, and thus should only be used when self-identifying or quoting someone who uses the term gender-queer for themselves.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Expression
1) The way a person presents their gender to the world through their clothing, hairstyle, mannerisms, and other factors. Gender expression is not necessarily tied to gender identity
2) The manner in which a person communicates about gender to others through external means such as clothing, appearance, or mannerisms. This communication may be conscious or subconscious and may or may not reflect their gender identity or sexual orientation. While most people’s understandings of gender expressions relate to masculinity and femininity, there are countless combinations that may incorporate both masculine and feminine expressions—or neither—through androgynous expressions. An individual’s gender expression does not automatically imply one’s gender identity. All people have gender expressions.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Neutral
Not gendered. Can refer to language (including pronouns and salutations/titles—see Gender-neutral salutations or titles), spaces (like bathrooms), or other aspects of society (like colors or occupations). Gender neutral is not a term to describe people (see Gender Expansive). A person who experiences no gender may be Agender or Neutrois.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Non-Conforming (GNC)
1) A term used to describe people whose gender expression differs from conventional expectations of masculinity and femininity. Please note that many cisgender people have gender expressions that are gender non-conforming. Simply having a non-conforming gender expression does not make someone trans or nonbinary. Nor are all transgender people gender non-conforming. Many transgender people have gender expressions that are conventionally masculine or feminine. Do not describe someone as gender non-conforming simply because they happen to be a transgender person.
2) A term for those who do not follow gender stereotypes. Often an umbrella for nonbinary genders. Though fairly uncommon, some people view the term as derogatory, so they may use other terms including gender expansive, differently gendered, gender creative, gender variant, genderqueer, nonbinary, agender, genderfluid, gender neutral, bigender, androgynous, or gender diverse. It is important to respect and use the terms people use for themselves, regardless of any prior associations or ideas about those terms.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Roles
The strict set of societal beliefs that dictate the so-called acceptable behaviors for people of different genders, usually binary in nature. Many people find these to be restrictive and harmful, as they reinforce the Gender Binary
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Socialization
A process that influences and teaches an individual how to behave as a man or a woman, based on culturally defined Gender Roles. Parents, teachers, peers, media, and faith traditions are some of the many agents of gender socialization. Gender socialization looks very different across cultures, especially your own. It is heavily impacted by other intersecting identities (see Intersectionality).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Spectrum
The concept that gender exists beyond a simple man/woman binary model (see Gender Binary), but instead exists on a continuum. Some people fall towards more masculine or feminine aspects, some people move fluidly along the spectrum, and some exist off the spectrum entirely.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Variant
A term often used by the medical community to describe individuals who dress, behave, or express themselves in a way that does not conform to dominant gender norms (see Gender Expansive). People outside the medical community tend to avoid this term because it suggests that these identities are abnormal, preferring terms such as gender expansive.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Identity
1) A person’s internal sense of their own gender, which may or may not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, a person who was assigned male at birth but identifies as female has a female gender identity
2) A person’s deeply held core sense of self in relation to gender (see Gender). Gender identity does not always correspond to biological sex. People become aware of their gender identity at many different stages of life, from as early as 18 months and into adulthood. According to Gender Spectrum, one study showed that “...the average age of self-realization for the child that they were transgender or non-binary was 7.9 years old, but the average age when they disclosed their understanding of their gender was 15.5 years old.” Gender identity is a separate concept from sexuality (see Sexual Orientation) and gender expression (see Gender Expression)
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gendered Language
Commonly understood as language that has a bias towards a particular sex or social gender. This can lead to women being excluded or rendered invisible. For example, the way titles are used. “Mr.” can refer to any man, regardless of marriage status, whereas “Miss” and “Mrs.” define women by whether they are married, which until quite recently meant defining them by their relationships with men.
Some languages, like Spanish, French, and others, will change the endings of words to associate them with a particular gender and person. English is NOT a gendered language in this particular way.
Source: https://pflag.org/glossary/
1)At times, “gay” is used to refer to all people, regardless of sex, who have their primary sexual and or romantic attractions to people of the same sex. The term can also exclusively refer to men who are emotionally, romantically, sexually, affectionately, or relationally attracted to other men, or who identify as members of the gay community. Lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender individuals may feel excluded by the term “gay.”
Source: https://www.montclair.edu/lgbtq-center/lgbtq-resources/terminology/
2) An term used to describe people who are emotionally, romantically, and/or physically attracted to people of the same gender (e.g., gay man, gay people). In contemporary contexts, lesbian is often a preferred term for women, though many women use the term gay to describe themselves. People who are gay need not have had any sexual experience. Attraction and self-identification determines sexual orientation, not the gender or sexual orientation of one’s partner. The term should not be used as an umbrella term for LGBTQ+ people, e.g. “the gay community,” because it excludes other sexual orientations and genders. Avoid using gay in a disparaging manner, e.g. “that’s so gay,” as a synonym for bad
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gayby
A person with one or more LGBTQ+ parent or caregiver. Typically, a term used for self identification only.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender
the socially constructed roles, behaviors, activities, and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for different genders. In a human context, the distinction between gender and sex reflects the usage of these terms: Sex refers to the biological status of being male, female, or intersex, whereas gender implies the psychological, behavioral, social, and cultural aspects of gender (i.e., masculinity, femininity, nonbinary, nonconforming, or other gender).
in linguistics, a grammatical category in inflected languages that governs the agreement between nouns and pronouns and adjectives.
Source: https://dictionary.apa.org/gender
Gender-Affirming Surgery (GAS)
Surgical procedures that can help people adjust their bodies to match their innate gender identity more closely. Used interchangeably with gender affirmation, gender confirmation, and gender-confirming surgery. Not every transgender person will desire or have resources for gender-affirming surgery. Use this term in place of the older term sex change. Also sometimes referred to as gender reassignment surgery, genital reconstruction surgery, or medical transition. (See Top Surgery and Bottom Surgery).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Binary
The dis-proven concept that there are only two genders, male and female, and that everyone must be one or the other. Also often misused to assert that gender is biologically determined. This concept also reinforces the idea that men and women are opposites and have different roles in society (see Gender Roles)
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Dysphoria
A medical diagnosis used to describe the distress that can arise from a mismatch between a person’s gender identity and the sex they were assigned at birth. Gender dysphoria is often treated with gender-affirming care, such as hormone therapy and surgery.
Source: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/gender-dysphoria/what-is-gender-dysphoria
Gender Euphoria
A euphoric feeling often experienced when one’s gender is recognized and respected by others, when one’s body aligns with one’s gender, or when one expresses themselves in accordance with their gender. Focusing on gender euphoria instead of gender dysphoria shifts focus towards the positive aspects of being transgender or gender expansive.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Expansive
An umbrella term sometimes used to describe people who expand notions of gender expression and identity beyond perceived or expected societal gender norms. Some gender-expansive individuals identify as a mix of genders, some identify more binarily as a man or a woman, and some identify as no gender (see Agender). Gender-expansive people might feel that they exist among genders, as on a spectrum, or beyond the notion of the man/woman binary paradigm. Sometimes gender-expansive people use gender-neutral pronouns (see Pronouns), but people can exist as any gender while using any pronouns. They may or may not be comfortable with their bodies as they are, regardless of how they express their gender.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender-fluid
Describes a person who does not consistently adhere to one fixed gender and who may move among genders.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender-queer
Refers to individuals who blur preconceived boundaries of gender in relation to the gender binary (See Gender Binary); they can also reject commonly held ideas of static gender identities. Sometimes used as an umbrella term in much the same way that the term queer is used, but only refers to gender, and thus should only be used when self-identifying or quoting someone who uses the term gender-queer for themselves.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Expression
1) The way a person presents their gender to the world through their clothing, hairstyle, mannerisms, and other factors. Gender expression is not necessarily tied to gender identity
2) The manner in which a person communicates about gender to others through external means such as clothing, appearance, or mannerisms. This communication may be conscious or subconscious and may or may not reflect their gender identity or sexual orientation. While most people’s understandings of gender expressions relate to masculinity and femininity, there are countless combinations that may incorporate both masculine and feminine expressions—or neither—through androgynous expressions. An individual’s gender expression does not automatically imply one’s gender identity. All people have gender expressions.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Neutral
Not gendered. Can refer to language (including pronouns and salutations/titles—see Gender-neutral salutations or titles), spaces (like bathrooms), or other aspects of society (like colors or occupations). Gender neutral is not a term to describe people (see Gender Expansive). A person who experiences no gender may be Agender or Neutrois.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Non-Conforming (GNC)
1) A term used to describe people whose gender expression differs from conventional expectations of masculinity and femininity. Please note that many cisgender people have gender expressions that are gender non-conforming. Simply having a non-conforming gender expression does not make someone trans or nonbinary. Nor are all transgender people gender non-conforming. Many transgender people have gender expressions that are conventionally masculine or feminine. Do not describe someone as gender non-conforming simply because they happen to be a transgender person.
2) A term for those who do not follow gender stereotypes. Often an umbrella for nonbinary genders. Though fairly uncommon, some people view the term as derogatory, so they may use other terms including gender expansive, differently gendered, gender creative, gender variant, genderqueer, nonbinary, agender, genderfluid, gender neutral, bigender, androgynous, or gender diverse. It is important to respect and use the terms people use for themselves, regardless of any prior associations or ideas about those terms.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Roles
The strict set of societal beliefs that dictate the so-called acceptable behaviors for people of different genders, usually binary in nature. Many people find these to be restrictive and harmful, as they reinforce the Gender Binary
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Socialization
A process that influences and teaches an individual how to behave as a man or a woman, based on culturally defined Gender Roles. Parents, teachers, peers, media, and faith traditions are some of the many agents of gender socialization. Gender socialization looks very different across cultures, especially your own. It is heavily impacted by other intersecting identities (see Intersectionality).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Spectrum
The concept that gender exists beyond a simple man/woman binary model (see Gender Binary), but instead exists on a continuum. Some people fall towards more masculine or feminine aspects, some people move fluidly along the spectrum, and some exist off the spectrum entirely.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Variant
A term often used by the medical community to describe individuals who dress, behave, or express themselves in a way that does not conform to dominant gender norms (see Gender Expansive). People outside the medical community tend to avoid this term because it suggests that these identities are abnormal, preferring terms such as gender expansive.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gender Identity
1) A person’s internal sense of their own gender, which may or may not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, a person who was assigned male at birth but identifies as female has a female gender identity
2) A person’s deeply held core sense of self in relation to gender (see Gender). Gender identity does not always correspond to biological sex. People become aware of their gender identity at many different stages of life, from as early as 18 months and into adulthood. According to Gender Spectrum, one study showed that “...the average age of self-realization for the child that they were transgender or non-binary was 7.9 years old, but the average age when they disclosed their understanding of their gender was 15.5 years old.” Gender identity is a separate concept from sexuality (see Sexual Orientation) and gender expression (see Gender Expression)
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Gendered Language
Commonly understood as language that has a bias towards a particular sex or social gender. This can lead to women being excluded or rendered invisible. For example, the way titles are used. “Mr.” can refer to any man, regardless of marriage status, whereas “Miss” and “Mrs.” define women by whether they are married, which until quite recently meant defining them by their relationships with men.
Some languages, like Spanish, French, and others, will change the endings of words to associate them with a particular gender and person. English is NOT a gendered language in this particular way.
Source: https://pflag.org/glossary/
H
Heterosexual
1)An adjective used to describe a person whose enduring physical, romantic, and/ or emotional attraction is to people of a sex different than their own. Also: straight.
2)Refers to a person who is emotionally, romantically, and/or physically attracted to a person of a different gender. Also referred to as straight.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Homosexual
(Adj):
1) Characterized by sexual or romantic attraction to, or sexual activity with, people of the same sex; involving or relating to same-sex desire or sexual activity.
2) Sexually or romantically attracted to, or engaging in sexual activity with, people of one's own sex.
(Noun):
A person who is sexually or romantically attracted to members of the same sex.
Source: https://www.oed.com/dictionary/homosexual_adj?tl=true
Hetero-normativity
1) Attitudes and behaviors that incorrectly assume everyone is straight, or that being heterosexual is “normal”.
Hetereo-normativity also assumes people should and will align with conventional expectations of society for sexual and romantic attraction. Hetero-normativity often combines with cis-normativity to create societal expectations of behavior.
2) The assumption that everyone is heterosexual and that heterosexuality is superior to all other sexualities. This includes the often implicitly held idea that heterosexuality is the norm and that other sexualities are “different” or “abnormal.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Heterosexism
The assumption that all people are or should be heterosexual. Heterosexism excludes the needs, concerns, and life experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer people, while it gives advantages to heterosexual people. It is often a subtle form of oppression, which reinforces realities of silence and erasure.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Heterosexuality
A sexual orientation in which a person feels physically attracted to people of a gender other than their own.
(See also Straight)
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Homophobia
1) Oppression, discrimination, and hatred directed toward members of the LGBTQ+ community. See also Heterosexism.
2) Animosity, hatred, or dislike of LGBTQ+ people that often manifests itself in the form of prejudice and bias. Homophobia often stems from lack of knowledge about LGBTQ+ people and the issues they face and can sometimes be alleviated with education and support. Related to Biphobia and Transphobia.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Hormone Blockers
1) Also referred to as Puberty Blockers, this is a form of gender-affirming medical care which allows young trans and gender-expansive people to prevent the potentially negative outcomes of going through a puberty that does not match their gender identity.
2) Medical treatment which allows young trans and gender-expansive people to prevent the potentially negative outcomes of going through a puberty that does not match their gender identity.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
1) A type of gender-affirming treatment that allows trans and gender-expansive people to medically transition or feel more at home in their bodies. Those taking testosterone (masculinizing hormones) may grow more facial/body hair and notice their voices deepening. Those taking estrogen (feminizing hormones) may see some breast growth and decreased libido. Many intersex people take (HRT) to balance the naturally occurring levels of estrogen and testosterone in their bodies. Benefits of such therapy can include improved mental and physical wellness, and reduced anxiety and dysphoria, for those who experience it.
2)Treatment which allows trans and gender-expansive people to medically transition or feel more at home in their bodies (see Gender-Affirming Surgery and Transition). Those taking testosterone (masculinizing hormones) may grow more facial/body hair and notice their voices deepening. Those taking estrogen (feminizing hormones) may see some breast growth and decreased libido. Many intersex people take HRT to balance the naturally occurring levels of estrogen and testosterone in their bodies. Benefits of such therapy can include improved mental and physical wellness, and reduced anxiety and dysphoria, for those who experience it.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Hyperfemininity
Term for the exaggeration of stereotypically female behavior, based on so-called gender roles. Hyperfeminine behavior is often expected of trans women in order to be seen as “real” women.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Hypermasculinity
Term for the exaggeration of stereotypically male behavior, based on so-called Gender Roles. Hypermasculine behavior is often expected of trans men in order to be seen as “real” men. Heterosexual men may display hypermasculine behaviors to “prove” they are not gay, even though gay men have many understandings of their own masculinity.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
1)An adjective used to describe a person whose enduring physical, romantic, and/ or emotional attraction is to people of a sex different than their own. Also: straight.
2)Refers to a person who is emotionally, romantically, and/or physically attracted to a person of a different gender. Also referred to as straight.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Homosexual
(Adj):
1) Characterized by sexual or romantic attraction to, or sexual activity with, people of the same sex; involving or relating to same-sex desire or sexual activity.
2) Sexually or romantically attracted to, or engaging in sexual activity with, people of one's own sex.
(Noun):
A person who is sexually or romantically attracted to members of the same sex.
Source: https://www.oed.com/dictionary/homosexual_adj?tl=true
Hetero-normativity
1) Attitudes and behaviors that incorrectly assume everyone is straight, or that being heterosexual is “normal”.
Hetereo-normativity also assumes people should and will align with conventional expectations of society for sexual and romantic attraction. Hetero-normativity often combines with cis-normativity to create societal expectations of behavior.
2) The assumption that everyone is heterosexual and that heterosexuality is superior to all other sexualities. This includes the often implicitly held idea that heterosexuality is the norm and that other sexualities are “different” or “abnormal.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Heterosexism
The assumption that all people are or should be heterosexual. Heterosexism excludes the needs, concerns, and life experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer people, while it gives advantages to heterosexual people. It is often a subtle form of oppression, which reinforces realities of silence and erasure.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Heterosexuality
A sexual orientation in which a person feels physically attracted to people of a gender other than their own.
(See also Straight)
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Homophobia
1) Oppression, discrimination, and hatred directed toward members of the LGBTQ+ community. See also Heterosexism.
2) Animosity, hatred, or dislike of LGBTQ+ people that often manifests itself in the form of prejudice and bias. Homophobia often stems from lack of knowledge about LGBTQ+ people and the issues they face and can sometimes be alleviated with education and support. Related to Biphobia and Transphobia.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Hormone Blockers
1) Also referred to as Puberty Blockers, this is a form of gender-affirming medical care which allows young trans and gender-expansive people to prevent the potentially negative outcomes of going through a puberty that does not match their gender identity.
2) Medical treatment which allows young trans and gender-expansive people to prevent the potentially negative outcomes of going through a puberty that does not match their gender identity.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
1) A type of gender-affirming treatment that allows trans and gender-expansive people to medically transition or feel more at home in their bodies. Those taking testosterone (masculinizing hormones) may grow more facial/body hair and notice their voices deepening. Those taking estrogen (feminizing hormones) may see some breast growth and decreased libido. Many intersex people take (HRT) to balance the naturally occurring levels of estrogen and testosterone in their bodies. Benefits of such therapy can include improved mental and physical wellness, and reduced anxiety and dysphoria, for those who experience it.
2)Treatment which allows trans and gender-expansive people to medically transition or feel more at home in their bodies (see Gender-Affirming Surgery and Transition). Those taking testosterone (masculinizing hormones) may grow more facial/body hair and notice their voices deepening. Those taking estrogen (feminizing hormones) may see some breast growth and decreased libido. Many intersex people take HRT to balance the naturally occurring levels of estrogen and testosterone in their bodies. Benefits of such therapy can include improved mental and physical wellness, and reduced anxiety and dysphoria, for those who experience it.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Hyperfemininity
Term for the exaggeration of stereotypically female behavior, based on so-called gender roles. Hyperfeminine behavior is often expected of trans women in order to be seen as “real” women.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Hypermasculinity
Term for the exaggeration of stereotypically male behavior, based on so-called Gender Roles. Hypermasculine behavior is often expected of trans men in order to be seen as “real” men. Heterosexual men may display hypermasculine behaviors to “prove” they are not gay, even though gay men have many understandings of their own masculinity.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
I
Internalized oppression
The fear and self-hate of one or more of a person’s own identities that occurs for many individuals who have learned negative ideas about their identities throughout their life. One form of internalized oppression is the acceptance of the myths and stereotypes applied to the oppressed group.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Intersectionality
1) A term coined by law professor Kimberlé Crenshaw in the 1980s to describe the way that multiple systems of oppression interact in the lives of those with multiple marginalized identities. Intersectionality looks at the relationships between multiple marginalized identities and allows us to analyze social problems more fully, shape more effective interventions, and promote more inclusive advocacy amongst communities.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
2) Coined by Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw, this term refers to the overlap of social categorizations or identities such as race and ethnicity, sexuality, gender, disability, geography, and class which exist in an individual or group of people that can contribute to discrimination or disadvantage.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Intersex
1) An umbrella term to describe a wide range of natural body variations that do not fit neatly into conventional definitions of male or female. Intersex variations may include, but are not limited to, variations in chromosome compositions, hormone concentrations, and external and internal characteristics. Many visibly intersex people are mutilated in infancy and early childhood by doctors to make their sex characteristics conform to society’s idea of what normal bodies should look like. Intersex people are relatively common, although society's denial of their existence has allowed very little room for intersex issues to be discussed publicly. Hermaphrodite is an outdated and offensive term that has been used to describe intersex people in the past.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
2) Intersex is the current term used to refer to people who are biologically between the medically expected definitions of male and female. This can be through variations in hormones, chromosomes, internal or external genitalia, or any combination of any or all primary and/or secondary sex characteristics. While many intersex people are noticed as intersex at birth, many are not. As intersex is about biological sex, it is distinct from gender identity and sexual orientation. An intersex person can be of any gender identity and can also be of any sexual orientation and any romantic orientation. The Intersex Society of North America opposes the practice of genital mutilation on infants and children who are intersex. Formerly, the medical terms hermaphrodite and pseudo-hermaphrodite were used; these terms are now considered neither acceptable nor scientifically accurate.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Intrinsic Inclinations
A model I forwarded in Whipping Girl (pp. 95-113) to describe subconscious yet persistent desires or affinities (e.g., with regards to sexual orientation, gender expression, or subconscious sex) that predispose us toward particular gender and sexual experiences. In the cited chapter, I make the case that these inclinations (which may be influenced by biology to some degree) do not exist in a vacuum; rather we make sense of these desires or affinities via social constructs, which subsequently leads us to adopt certain sexual or gender identities. This model was intended to bridge the gap between those who assume that gender and sexuality are strictly biologically determined and those who view gender and sexuality as merely social constructs or artifacts. I further expanded upon this model (addressing critics who misconstrued my argument as being essentialist because it invokes biology) in Excluded, pp. 138-168. ( see Subconscious Sex )
Source: https://www.juliaserano.com/terminology.html#subconscioussex:~:text=Intrinsic%20Inclinations%3A%20a,pp.%20138-168.
The fear and self-hate of one or more of a person’s own identities that occurs for many individuals who have learned negative ideas about their identities throughout their life. One form of internalized oppression is the acceptance of the myths and stereotypes applied to the oppressed group.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Intersectionality
1) A term coined by law professor Kimberlé Crenshaw in the 1980s to describe the way that multiple systems of oppression interact in the lives of those with multiple marginalized identities. Intersectionality looks at the relationships between multiple marginalized identities and allows us to analyze social problems more fully, shape more effective interventions, and promote more inclusive advocacy amongst communities.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
2) Coined by Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw, this term refers to the overlap of social categorizations or identities such as race and ethnicity, sexuality, gender, disability, geography, and class which exist in an individual or group of people that can contribute to discrimination or disadvantage.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Intersex
1) An umbrella term to describe a wide range of natural body variations that do not fit neatly into conventional definitions of male or female. Intersex variations may include, but are not limited to, variations in chromosome compositions, hormone concentrations, and external and internal characteristics. Many visibly intersex people are mutilated in infancy and early childhood by doctors to make their sex characteristics conform to society’s idea of what normal bodies should look like. Intersex people are relatively common, although society's denial of their existence has allowed very little room for intersex issues to be discussed publicly. Hermaphrodite is an outdated and offensive term that has been used to describe intersex people in the past.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
2) Intersex is the current term used to refer to people who are biologically between the medically expected definitions of male and female. This can be through variations in hormones, chromosomes, internal or external genitalia, or any combination of any or all primary and/or secondary sex characteristics. While many intersex people are noticed as intersex at birth, many are not. As intersex is about biological sex, it is distinct from gender identity and sexual orientation. An intersex person can be of any gender identity and can also be of any sexual orientation and any romantic orientation. The Intersex Society of North America opposes the practice of genital mutilation on infants and children who are intersex. Formerly, the medical terms hermaphrodite and pseudo-hermaphrodite were used; these terms are now considered neither acceptable nor scientifically accurate.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Intrinsic Inclinations
A model I forwarded in Whipping Girl (pp. 95-113) to describe subconscious yet persistent desires or affinities (e.g., with regards to sexual orientation, gender expression, or subconscious sex) that predispose us toward particular gender and sexual experiences. In the cited chapter, I make the case that these inclinations (which may be influenced by biology to some degree) do not exist in a vacuum; rather we make sense of these desires or affinities via social constructs, which subsequently leads us to adopt certain sexual or gender identities. This model was intended to bridge the gap between those who assume that gender and sexuality are strictly biologically determined and those who view gender and sexuality as merely social constructs or artifacts. I further expanded upon this model (addressing critics who misconstrued my argument as being essentialist because it invokes biology) in Excluded, pp. 138-168. ( see Subconscious Sex )
Source: https://www.juliaserano.com/terminology.html#subconscioussex:~:text=Intrinsic%20Inclinations%3A%20a,pp.%20138-168.
J
K
Kinsey Scale
A scale developed in the 1940s by Alfred Kinsey which places an individual’s sexual orientation on a spectrum from 0 (exclusively heterosexual) to 6 (exclusivley homosexual). The scale included the measurement “X” which indicated an absence of sexual behavior. The scale was an early recognition of fluid sexual orientation and was credited with challenging the heterosexual/homosexual binary.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
A scale developed in the 1940s by Alfred Kinsey which places an individual’s sexual orientation on a spectrum from 0 (exclusively heterosexual) to 6 (exclusivley homosexual). The scale included the measurement “X” which indicated an absence of sexual behavior. The scale was an early recognition of fluid sexual orientation and was credited with challenging the heterosexual/homosexual binary.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
L
Lesbian
1) A woman whose enduring physical, romantic, and/or emotional attraction is to other women. Some lesbians may prefer to identify as gay (adj.) or as gay women. Avoid identifying lesbians as “homosexuals.” Lesbian can be used as a noun or adjective. Ask people how they describe themselves before labeling their sexual orientation.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
2) Refers to a woman who is emotionally, romantically, and/or physically attracted to other women. People who are lesbians need not have had any sexual experience: Attraction and self-identification determines orientation, not the gender or sexual orientation of one’s partner. As an adjective, used to refer to female same-sex attraction and sexual behavior; as a noun, used as a sexual orientation identity label by women whose sexual attractions and behaviors are exclusively or mainly directed to other women.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
LGBTQQIP2SAA
1) The acronym stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, pansexual, two-spirit, asexual, and ally. The term “gay community” should be avoided, as it does not accurately reflect the diversity of the community. Rather, LGBTQ community or LGBTQ+ community are recommended.
2)Abbreviation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual. The additional “+” stands for all of the other identities not encompassed in the short acronym. An umbrella term that is often used to refer to the community as a whole. Our center uses LGBTQIA to intentionally include and raise awareness of Queer, Intersex and Asexual communities as well as myriad other communities under our umbrella.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Lived Experience
To value the personal experiences of individuals as much as quantitative data. For example, believing narratives of discrimination against LGBTQ+ people persisting even if they counter larger narratives of acceptance. The concept of lived experience as a criterion on meaning was coined by Patricia Hill Collins.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
1) A woman whose enduring physical, romantic, and/or emotional attraction is to other women. Some lesbians may prefer to identify as gay (adj.) or as gay women. Avoid identifying lesbians as “homosexuals.” Lesbian can be used as a noun or adjective. Ask people how they describe themselves before labeling their sexual orientation.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
2) Refers to a woman who is emotionally, romantically, and/or physically attracted to other women. People who are lesbians need not have had any sexual experience: Attraction and self-identification determines orientation, not the gender or sexual orientation of one’s partner. As an adjective, used to refer to female same-sex attraction and sexual behavior; as a noun, used as a sexual orientation identity label by women whose sexual attractions and behaviors are exclusively or mainly directed to other women.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
LGBTQQIP2SAA
1) The acronym stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, pansexual, two-spirit, asexual, and ally. The term “gay community” should be avoided, as it does not accurately reflect the diversity of the community. Rather, LGBTQ community or LGBTQ+ community are recommended.
2)Abbreviation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual. The additional “+” stands for all of the other identities not encompassed in the short acronym. An umbrella term that is often used to refer to the community as a whole. Our center uses LGBTQIA to intentionally include and raise awareness of Queer, Intersex and Asexual communities as well as myriad other communities under our umbrella.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Lived Experience
To value the personal experiences of individuals as much as quantitative data. For example, believing narratives of discrimination against LGBTQ+ people persisting even if they counter larger narratives of acceptance. The concept of lived experience as a criterion on meaning was coined by Patricia Hill Collins.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
M
Man
An adult male human being. An adult who lives and identifies as male though they may have been said to have a different sex at birth.
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/man
Misgender
Using the incorrect pronouns or other gender-specific words when referring to or speaking to someone, especially a transgender person.
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/man
MTF
Male to Female. Generally used to refer to anyone assigned male at birth whose affirmed gender identity or expression is feminine all or part of the time. Some people prefer the term ‘transitioning to female’ (or ‘female,’ ‘woman,’ ‘femme,’ or ‘trans woman’), as this does not use misgendering language. This term is not used as often in the 2020s, but may be important in certain (e.g. medical) contexts.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
An adult male human being. An adult who lives and identifies as male though they may have been said to have a different sex at birth.
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/man
Misgender
Using the incorrect pronouns or other gender-specific words when referring to or speaking to someone, especially a transgender person.
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/man
MTF
Male to Female. Generally used to refer to anyone assigned male at birth whose affirmed gender identity or expression is feminine all or part of the time. Some people prefer the term ‘transitioning to female’ (or ‘female,’ ‘woman,’ ‘femme,’ or ‘trans woman’), as this does not use misgendering language. This term is not used as often in the 2020s, but may be important in certain (e.g. medical) contexts.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
N
Nonbinary
1) An adjective used by people who experience their gender identity and/or gender expression as falling outside the binary gender categories of man and woman. Many nonbinary people also call themselves transgender and consider themselves part of the transgender community. Others do not. Nonbinary is an umbrella term that encompasses many different ways to understand one’s gender. Some nonbinary people may also use words like agender, bigender, demigender, pangender. Nonbinary is sometimes shortened to Enby.
2)Refers to people who do not subscribe to the gender binary. They might exist between or beyond the man-woman binary. Some use the term exclusively, while others may use it interchangeably with terms like Genderqueer, Genderfluid, Gender Nonconforming, gender diverse, or gender expansive. It can also be combined with other descriptors e.g. nonbinary woman or transmasc nonbinary. It’s important to trust and respect the words that nonbinary people use to describe their genders and experiences.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
1) An adjective used by people who experience their gender identity and/or gender expression as falling outside the binary gender categories of man and woman. Many nonbinary people also call themselves transgender and consider themselves part of the transgender community. Others do not. Nonbinary is an umbrella term that encompasses many different ways to understand one’s gender. Some nonbinary people may also use words like agender, bigender, demigender, pangender. Nonbinary is sometimes shortened to Enby.
2)Refers to people who do not subscribe to the gender binary. They might exist between or beyond the man-woman binary. Some use the term exclusively, while others may use it interchangeably with terms like Genderqueer, Genderfluid, Gender Nonconforming, gender diverse, or gender expansive. It can also be combined with other descriptors e.g. nonbinary woman or transmasc nonbinary. It’s important to trust and respect the words that nonbinary people use to describe their genders and experiences.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
O
Orientation
One’s attraction or non-attraction to other people. An individual’s orientation can be fluid and people use a variety of labels to describe their orientation. Some, but not all, types of attraction or orientation include: romantic, sexual, sensual, aesthetic, intellectual and platonic.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Openly Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender
This phrase is now dated. Please see Out below. “Openly gay” has been used to describe people who self-identify as gay in their personal, public, and/or professional lives. Also openly lesbian, openly bisexual, openly transgender, openly queer. While technically accurate, the phrase implies a confessional aspect to publicly acknowledging one’s sexual orientation or gender identity. It is now better to avoid this phrase.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
Out
1) A person who self-identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer and/or transgender in their personal, public, and/or professional lives. For example: Ricky Martin is an out gay pop star from Puerto Rico. Preferred to openly gay.
2) A term which describes people who openly self-identify as LGBTQ+ in their private, public, and/or professional lives. There are many states of being out; individuals can be out only to themselves, close friends, or everyone. Some transgender people prefer to use the term disclose (see Disclosure).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Outing
1) The act of publicly revealing (sometimes based on rumor and/or speculation) another person’s sexual orientation or gender identity without that person’s consent. Considered inappropriate and potentially dangerous by a large portion of the LGBTQ community.
2) The deliberate or accidental sharing of another person’s sexual orientation or gender identity without their explicit consent. Outing is disrespectful and presents a danger for many LGBTQ+ individuals.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
One’s attraction or non-attraction to other people. An individual’s orientation can be fluid and people use a variety of labels to describe their orientation. Some, but not all, types of attraction or orientation include: romantic, sexual, sensual, aesthetic, intellectual and platonic.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Openly Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender
This phrase is now dated. Please see Out below. “Openly gay” has been used to describe people who self-identify as gay in their personal, public, and/or professional lives. Also openly lesbian, openly bisexual, openly transgender, openly queer. While technically accurate, the phrase implies a confessional aspect to publicly acknowledging one’s sexual orientation or gender identity. It is now better to avoid this phrase.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms/
Out
1) A person who self-identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer and/or transgender in their personal, public, and/or professional lives. For example: Ricky Martin is an out gay pop star from Puerto Rico. Preferred to openly gay.
2) A term which describes people who openly self-identify as LGBTQ+ in their private, public, and/or professional lives. There are many states of being out; individuals can be out only to themselves, close friends, or everyone. Some transgender people prefer to use the term disclose (see Disclosure).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Outing
1) The act of publicly revealing (sometimes based on rumor and/or speculation) another person’s sexual orientation or gender identity without that person’s consent. Considered inappropriate and potentially dangerous by a large portion of the LGBTQ community.
2) The deliberate or accidental sharing of another person’s sexual orientation or gender identity without their explicit consent. Outing is disrespectful and presents a danger for many LGBTQ+ individuals.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
P
PTP
Acronym for Person with a Transgender Parent (see Transpawn)
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Acronym for Person with a Transgender Parent (see Transpawn)
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Q
QPOC/QTPOC/QTBIPOC
Queer People of Color; Queer Trans People of Color; Queer Trans Black Indigenous People of Color. Often used to discuss the ways in which intersectional identities can result in multifaceted systems and experiences of oppression.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Queer
1) An umbrella term used to describe gender/sexual/romantic orientations or identities that fall outside of societal norms. Historically, queer has been used as an epithet/slur against the LGBTQ+ community. Some people have reclaimed the word queer and self identify in opposition to assimilation [adapted from “Queering the Field”]. For some, this reclamation is a celebration of not fitting into social norms. Not all people who identify as LGBTQIA use “queer” to describe themselves. For example, those of earlier generations are typically averse to self-identifying as queer. The term is often considered hateful when used by those who do not identify as LGBTQIA.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
2) A term used by some LGBTQ+ people to describe themselves and/or their community. Reclaimed from its earlier negative use—and valued by some for its defiance—the term is also considered by some to be inclusive of the entire community, and by others who find it to be an appropriate term to describe their more fluid identities. Traditionally a negative or pejorative term for people who are LGBTQ+, some people within the community dislike the term. Due to its varying meanings, use this word only when self-identifying or quoting someone who self-identifies as queer (i.e. “My cousin identifies as queer” or “My cousin is a queer person”).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Queer Platonic Relationship (QPR)/Queer Platonic Partnership (QPP)
Relationships that purposely defy relationship categories, and can mix elements from platonic, romantic, and sexual relationships. They are each unique depending on the people involved in them, but they often involve some level of commitment or intimacy. Because asexual and aromantic people tend to structure their relationships and interpersonal needs in unique ways, many of them choose to engage in relationships that are hard to define, and take comfort in Queer Platonic Relationships.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Questioning
1) The process of exploring one’s own gender identity, gender expression, and/or sexual orientation. Some people may also use this term to name their identity within the LGBTQIA community.
2) Describes those who are in a process of discovery and exploration about their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or a combination thereof. Questioning people can be of any age, so for many reasons, this may happen later in life. Questioning is a profoundly important process, and one that does not imply that someone is choosing to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Queer People of Color; Queer Trans People of Color; Queer Trans Black Indigenous People of Color. Often used to discuss the ways in which intersectional identities can result in multifaceted systems and experiences of oppression.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Queer
1) An umbrella term used to describe gender/sexual/romantic orientations or identities that fall outside of societal norms. Historically, queer has been used as an epithet/slur against the LGBTQ+ community. Some people have reclaimed the word queer and self identify in opposition to assimilation [adapted from “Queering the Field”]. For some, this reclamation is a celebration of not fitting into social norms. Not all people who identify as LGBTQIA use “queer” to describe themselves. For example, those of earlier generations are typically averse to self-identifying as queer. The term is often considered hateful when used by those who do not identify as LGBTQIA.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
2) A term used by some LGBTQ+ people to describe themselves and/or their community. Reclaimed from its earlier negative use—and valued by some for its defiance—the term is also considered by some to be inclusive of the entire community, and by others who find it to be an appropriate term to describe their more fluid identities. Traditionally a negative or pejorative term for people who are LGBTQ+, some people within the community dislike the term. Due to its varying meanings, use this word only when self-identifying or quoting someone who self-identifies as queer (i.e. “My cousin identifies as queer” or “My cousin is a queer person”).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Queer Platonic Relationship (QPR)/Queer Platonic Partnership (QPP)
Relationships that purposely defy relationship categories, and can mix elements from platonic, romantic, and sexual relationships. They are each unique depending on the people involved in them, but they often involve some level of commitment or intimacy. Because asexual and aromantic people tend to structure their relationships and interpersonal needs in unique ways, many of them choose to engage in relationships that are hard to define, and take comfort in Queer Platonic Relationships.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Questioning
1) The process of exploring one’s own gender identity, gender expression, and/or sexual orientation. Some people may also use this term to name their identity within the LGBTQIA community.
2) Describes those who are in a process of discovery and exploration about their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or a combination thereof. Questioning people can be of any age, so for many reasons, this may happen later in life. Questioning is a profoundly important process, and one that does not imply that someone is choosing to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
R
Romantic Orientation
Romantic Orientation is attraction or non-attraction to other people characterized by the expression or non-expression of love. Romantic orientation can be fluid and people use a variety of labels to describe their romantic orientation. See also Orientation. Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria (ROGD)
A fake medical diagnosis or condition invented by trans-antagonistic & trans-suspicious bloggers in order to deny and disaffirm some transgender children’s gender identities and experiences with gender dysphoria. Proponents of the concept insist that ROGD is caused by [social contagion](), and often use this as an excuse to isolate supposedly “ROGD kids” from other trans-identified children and trans-themed social media. I debunk the concept in this essay.
Source: https://www.juliaserano.com/terminology.html#ROGD:~:text=Rapid%20Onset%20Gender%20Dysphoria%20(ROGD,concept%20in%20this%20essay.
Romantic Orientation is attraction or non-attraction to other people characterized by the expression or non-expression of love. Romantic orientation can be fluid and people use a variety of labels to describe their romantic orientation. See also Orientation. Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria (ROGD)
A fake medical diagnosis or condition invented by trans-antagonistic & trans-suspicious bloggers in order to deny and disaffirm some transgender children’s gender identities and experiences with gender dysphoria. Proponents of the concept insist that ROGD is caused by [social contagion](), and often use this as an excuse to isolate supposedly “ROGD kids” from other trans-identified children and trans-themed social media. I debunk the concept in this essay.
Source: https://www.juliaserano.com/terminology.html#ROGD:~:text=Rapid%20Onset%20Gender%20Dysphoria%20(ROGD,concept%20in%20this%20essay.
S
Sapphic
Used to describe any female-identifying person who is attracted to other female-identifying people. This broad term includes lesbians, bisexuals, omnisexuals, pansexuals, romantic asexuals, and other orientations, as well as nonbinary folks. Often sapphic is used as a more inclusive term instead of “women who like women (WLW)” or lesbian.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Sex Embodiment
The experience of inhabiting a sexed body and/or one’s self-understanding or relationship with their own sexual body or anatomy. I began forwarding the term in the late ’00s as a companion term to go with the more commonly discussed gender identity, which seems to articulate our “gender affiliation” fairly well, but which obscures how we relate to our physically sexed bodies -- a matter which is important, and perhaps even central, to many transsexuals’ experiences. Also, I have often found that some people who respect my female gender identity (i.e., my gender affiliation) do not accept my sex embodiment (i.e., they refused to relate to my physical body or sexual anatomy as female).
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Sex assigned at Birth
1) The sex assigned to a person at birth based on their external anatomy. This is often referred to as “male” or “female,” but it’s important to note that sex is not strictly binary and can be more complex than that.
2) A medically constructed categorization. Sex is often assigned based on the appearance of the genitalia, either in ultrasound or at birth. Sex assigned at birth is different from gender identity, and sex is not always binary, such as for Intersex individuals. See also Intersex, AFAB, and AMAB.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Sexual Orientation
1) The scientifically accurate term for an person’s enduring physical, romantic and/ or emotional attraction to another person. Sexual orientations can include heterosexual (straight), lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, asexual, and other orientations. Avoid the offensive term “sexual preference,” which is used to inaccurately suggest that being gay, lesbian, or bisexual is voluntary and “curable.” People need not have had specific sexual experiences to know their own sexual orientation; in fact, they need not have had any sexual experience at all.
2) Emotional, romantic, or sexual feelings toward other people or no people (see Asexual). While sexual activity involves the choices one makes regarding behavior, one’s sexual activity does not define one’s sexual orientation. Sexual orientation is part of the human condition, and all people have one. Typically, it is attraction that helps determine orientation. It also may refer to a person’s choice of whether or not to engage in sexual relationships and practices.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Skoliosexuality
Sometimes spelled scoliosexuality, is the attraction to people who are transgender or nonbinary. People who are transgender identify as a gender different from the one they were assigned at birth. They may identify as a man, a woman, or neither. See also Ceterosexual.
Source: https://www.webmd.com/sex/what-is-skoliosexuality
Social Contagion
A concept used to describe how certain behaviors can spread through the population, almost as if they were infectious. Some trans-antagonistic & trans-suspicious groups have latched onto the idea that the recent rise in people identifying as transgender is due to “social contagion” -- the implication being that these people are not “naturally” or “intrinsically” trans, but rather are persuaded by outside forces. However, the Wikipedia entry for the phenomenon describes “reduction of restraints” as a major factor that influences contagion, which would suggest a very different interpretation: Perhaps gender variance is naturally more common in the population than most people presume, but social pressure (e.g., transphobia and cisnormativity) has historically coerced most of these individuals to hide or suppress such behaviors. Therefore, if the recent increase in trans-identified people were the result of “social contagion,” it is likely because increasing transgender awareness and acceptance has reduced former restraints against expressing this diversity. This is essentially the case that I make (via an analogy with the rise of left-handedness over the last century) in this essay. See also Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria.
Source: https://www.juliaserano.com/terminology.html#U:~:text=Social%20Contagion%3A%20a,Gender%20Dysphoria.
Social Construction Theory
The idea that many of the institutions, expectations, and identities that we consider natural have been created and shaped by societies and people who came before us. Things that are socially constructed still have very real influences and consequences, even if they are not based in an inherent truth. Social constructs can be reconstructed in order to better fit the society and culture they govern.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Social Transition
Telling family, friends, and co-workers, using a different name, using different pronouns, dressing differently, starting or stopping wearing make-up and jewelry, etc.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms
SOGIESC
Acronym for sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and sex characteristics, more commonly used in countries outside the United States. Inclusive of all sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, and sex characteristics, including intersex traits. Some also use SOGI (sexual orientation, gender identity) or SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression). The acronym refers to all humans with sexual orientations and gender identities, including cisgender and straight people. So when talking about people with marginalized identities, it is important to also use words that specify the marginalized groups you are referring to (e.g. transgender, nonbinary, lesbian, etc.).
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms
Straight
A romantic and/or sexual orientation in which a person feels attracted to people of a gender other than their own. Usually used to describe a man attracted to women and vice-versa. See also Heterosexual.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Stud
A term for Black lesbians who take on a more butch (see Butch) or masculine role. Also known as ag/aggressive or butch. This term is not appropriate for non-Black lesbians to use. Often on a spectrum from butch to femme (see Femme) or stud to femme.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Subconscious Sex
A term coined by Julia Serano in Whipping Girl (pp. 26-29, 77-93) to describe an unconscious and inexplicable self-understanding regarding what sex one belongs to or should be. She felt the phrase was necessary to distinguish between these unconscious experiences and the more conscious way we make sense of such feelings (i.e., what we typically call gender identity). Furthermore, the word “identity” makes it purposefully used the word “subconscious” (which is ambiguous and rarely used in academic/research settings) to capture the vagueness of such feelings (at least as she experienced them) and to avoid making it sound like she believe that they resided in a specific gene or region of the brain. And she intentionally used the word “sex” (rather than “gender”) to reflect the fact that for many transsexuals (including herself) the desire to transition is often driven by sex embodiment (i.e., aligning our subconscious and physical sexes) more so, or in addition to, a sense of sex/gender affiliation (i.e., belonging to and being recognized as a member of that sex/gender). I also argued (in the cited passages) that cissexuals also likely have a subconscious sex, but they tend not to notice or appreciate it because it is concordant with their physical sex (and therefore they tend to conflate the two); this helps to explain the strong knee-jerk negative reactions some cis people exhibit toward transsexuals and the very notion of physical transition. See also intrinsic inclinations.
Source: https://www.juliaserano.com/terminology.html#subconscioussex
SWERF
SWERF is an acronym standing for Sex Worker-Exclusionary Radical Feminist, a label for a woman who supports mainstream feminism but opposes sex work, believing it is ultimately oppressive.
Source: https://www.dictionary.com/e/acronyms/swerf/
Used to describe any female-identifying person who is attracted to other female-identifying people. This broad term includes lesbians, bisexuals, omnisexuals, pansexuals, romantic asexuals, and other orientations, as well as nonbinary folks. Often sapphic is used as a more inclusive term instead of “women who like women (WLW)” or lesbian.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Sex Embodiment
The experience of inhabiting a sexed body and/or one’s self-understanding or relationship with their own sexual body or anatomy. I began forwarding the term in the late ’00s as a companion term to go with the more commonly discussed gender identity, which seems to articulate our “gender affiliation” fairly well, but which obscures how we relate to our physically sexed bodies -- a matter which is important, and perhaps even central, to many transsexuals’ experiences. Also, I have often found that some people who respect my female gender identity (i.e., my gender affiliation) do not accept my sex embodiment (i.e., they refused to relate to my physical body or sexual anatomy as female).
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Sex assigned at Birth
1) The sex assigned to a person at birth based on their external anatomy. This is often referred to as “male” or “female,” but it’s important to note that sex is not strictly binary and can be more complex than that.
2) A medically constructed categorization. Sex is often assigned based on the appearance of the genitalia, either in ultrasound or at birth. Sex assigned at birth is different from gender identity, and sex is not always binary, such as for Intersex individuals. See also Intersex, AFAB, and AMAB.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Sexual Orientation
1) The scientifically accurate term for an person’s enduring physical, romantic and/ or emotional attraction to another person. Sexual orientations can include heterosexual (straight), lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, asexual, and other orientations. Avoid the offensive term “sexual preference,” which is used to inaccurately suggest that being gay, lesbian, or bisexual is voluntary and “curable.” People need not have had specific sexual experiences to know their own sexual orientation; in fact, they need not have had any sexual experience at all.
2) Emotional, romantic, or sexual feelings toward other people or no people (see Asexual). While sexual activity involves the choices one makes regarding behavior, one’s sexual activity does not define one’s sexual orientation. Sexual orientation is part of the human condition, and all people have one. Typically, it is attraction that helps determine orientation. It also may refer to a person’s choice of whether or not to engage in sexual relationships and practices.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Skoliosexuality
Sometimes spelled scoliosexuality, is the attraction to people who are transgender or nonbinary. People who are transgender identify as a gender different from the one they were assigned at birth. They may identify as a man, a woman, or neither. See also Ceterosexual.
Source: https://www.webmd.com/sex/what-is-skoliosexuality
Social Contagion
A concept used to describe how certain behaviors can spread through the population, almost as if they were infectious. Some trans-antagonistic & trans-suspicious groups have latched onto the idea that the recent rise in people identifying as transgender is due to “social contagion” -- the implication being that these people are not “naturally” or “intrinsically” trans, but rather are persuaded by outside forces. However, the Wikipedia entry for the phenomenon describes “reduction of restraints” as a major factor that influences contagion, which would suggest a very different interpretation: Perhaps gender variance is naturally more common in the population than most people presume, but social pressure (e.g., transphobia and cisnormativity) has historically coerced most of these individuals to hide or suppress such behaviors. Therefore, if the recent increase in trans-identified people were the result of “social contagion,” it is likely because increasing transgender awareness and acceptance has reduced former restraints against expressing this diversity. This is essentially the case that I make (via an analogy with the rise of left-handedness over the last century) in this essay. See also Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria.
Source: https://www.juliaserano.com/terminology.html#U:~:text=Social%20Contagion%3A%20a,Gender%20Dysphoria.
Social Construction Theory
The idea that many of the institutions, expectations, and identities that we consider natural have been created and shaped by societies and people who came before us. Things that are socially constructed still have very real influences and consequences, even if they are not based in an inherent truth. Social constructs can be reconstructed in order to better fit the society and culture they govern.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Social Transition
Telling family, friends, and co-workers, using a different name, using different pronouns, dressing differently, starting or stopping wearing make-up and jewelry, etc.
- Legal transition – Changing your name and/or sex marker on documents like a driver’s license, passport, Social Security record, bank accounts, etc.
- Medical transition – Hormone replacement therapy and/or one or more surgical procedures.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms
SOGIESC
Acronym for sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and sex characteristics, more commonly used in countries outside the United States. Inclusive of all sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, and sex characteristics, including intersex traits. Some also use SOGI (sexual orientation, gender identity) or SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression). The acronym refers to all humans with sexual orientations and gender identities, including cisgender and straight people. So when talking about people with marginalized identities, it is important to also use words that specify the marginalized groups you are referring to (e.g. transgender, nonbinary, lesbian, etc.).
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/terms
Straight
A romantic and/or sexual orientation in which a person feels attracted to people of a gender other than their own. Usually used to describe a man attracted to women and vice-versa. See also Heterosexual.
Source: https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary
Stud
A term for Black lesbians who take on a more butch (see Butch) or masculine role. Also known as ag/aggressive or butch. This term is not appropriate for non-Black lesbians to use. Often on a spectrum from butch to femme (see Femme) or stud to femme.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Subconscious Sex
A term coined by Julia Serano in Whipping Girl (pp. 26-29, 77-93) to describe an unconscious and inexplicable self-understanding regarding what sex one belongs to or should be. She felt the phrase was necessary to distinguish between these unconscious experiences and the more conscious way we make sense of such feelings (i.e., what we typically call gender identity). Furthermore, the word “identity” makes it purposefully used the word “subconscious” (which is ambiguous and rarely used in academic/research settings) to capture the vagueness of such feelings (at least as she experienced them) and to avoid making it sound like she believe that they resided in a specific gene or region of the brain. And she intentionally used the word “sex” (rather than “gender”) to reflect the fact that for many transsexuals (including herself) the desire to transition is often driven by sex embodiment (i.e., aligning our subconscious and physical sexes) more so, or in addition to, a sense of sex/gender affiliation (i.e., belonging to and being recognized as a member of that sex/gender). I also argued (in the cited passages) that cissexuals also likely have a subconscious sex, but they tend not to notice or appreciate it because it is concordant with their physical sex (and therefore they tend to conflate the two); this helps to explain the strong knee-jerk negative reactions some cis people exhibit toward transsexuals and the very notion of physical transition. See also intrinsic inclinations.
Source: https://www.juliaserano.com/terminology.html#subconscioussex
SWERF
SWERF is an acronym standing for Sex Worker-Exclusionary Radical Feminist, a label for a woman who supports mainstream feminism but opposes sex work, believing it is ultimately oppressive.
Source: https://www.dictionary.com/e/acronyms/swerf/
T
- TERF and Gender Critical
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/terf
2) Terms used to describe anti-trans activists who seek to limit full equality for transgender people and exclude trans women from women’s spaces. The term TERF is an acronym for “Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist.” Coined in 2008, the word describes a particular type of ideology which existed well before the invention of the word. Anti-trans activist and author Janice Raymond articulated many of these same transphobic claims in her 1979 book The Transsexual Empire: The Making of the She-Male. Recently anti-trans activists have argued that TERF is a slur and have adopted the euphemism “gender critical” to describe their beliefs.
Source: https://glaad.org/reference/trans-terms
Top Surgery
A term used to describe chest surgery for people of a transgender experience. This can include procedures such as mastectomy (breast removal) and chest masculinization as well as breast implants and chest feminization.
Surgery performed on an individual’s chest/breasts as a part of gender-affirming surgery. For AFAB people, this can be a chest reduction or a full removal. For AMAB people, this can be an increase in chest size using saline or silicone.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Trancestors
An informal term for trans elders, coming from a combination of the words “transgender” and “ancestors.” The term highlights the fact that many trans people do not get to grow old, and celebrates intergenerational relationships. Trancestors can be well-known within the movement or personal to a community, filling a parent or grandparent-like role (see Chosen Family). Trancestors can make an impact during and after their lives, and prove that there is a long history of transgender people throughout the world.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Transition
Transition is the process a person undertakes to bring their gender expression and/or their body into alignment with their gender identity. It is a complex process that occurs over a long period of time and the exact steps involved in transition will vary from person to person. Transition can include:
- Social transition – Telling family, friends, and co-workers, using a different name, using different pronouns, dressing differently, starting or stopping wearing make-up and jewelry, etc.
- Legal transition – Changing your name and/or sex marker on documents like a driver’s license, passport, Social Security record, bank accounts, etc.
- Medical transition – Hormone replacement therapy and/or one or more surgical procedures.
Transgender
1) A term used to refer to the process—social, legal, and/or medical—one goes through to affirm one’s gender identity. This may, but does not always, include taking hormones; having surgeries; and changing names, pronouns, identification documents, and more. Many individuals choose not to or are unable to transition for a wide range of reasons both within and beyond their control. The validity of an individual’s gender identity does not depend on any social, legal, and/or medical transition; the self-identification itself is what validates the gender identity.
2) An adjective to describe people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. People who are transgender may also use other terms, in addition to transgender, to describe their gender more specifically. Some of those terms are defined in the Transgender Glossary . Use the term(s) the person uses to describe themself. It is important to note that being transgender is not dependent upon physical appearance or medical procedures. A person can call themself transgender the moment they realize that their gender identity is different than the sex they were assigned at birth.
Often shortened to trans, from the Latin prefix for “on a different side as.” A term describing a person’s gender identity that does not necessarily match their assigned sex at birth. Transgender people may or may not decide to alter their bodies hormonally and/or surgically to match their gender identity. 3) This word is also used as an umbrella term to describe groups of people who transcend conventional expectations of gender identity or expression—such groups include, but are not limited to, people who identify as transsexual, genderqueer, gender variant, gender diverse, and androgynous. See above for common acronyms and terms including female to male (or FTM), male to female (or MTF), assigned male at birth (or AMAB), assigned female at birth (or AFAB), nonbinary, and gender-expansive. Trans is often considered more inclusive than transgender because it includes transgender, transsexual, transmasc, transfem, and those who simply use the word trans.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Transfeminine
1) Identity label preferred by some male-to-female transgender people.
2) An AMAB person who is closer to femininity than masculinity but is not a binary woman. Often abbreviated to transfem or transfemme.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Transmasculine
1) Identity label preferred by some female-to-male transgender people.
2) An AFAB person who is closer to masculinity than femininity but is not a binary man. Often abbreviated to transmasc.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Transmedicalism
Transmedicalists are people, both trans and cisgender, who hold the belief that the experience of gender dysphoria (which is the distress caused when a person's assigned sex at birth and assumed gender is not the same as the one with which they identify) is required to be considered "legitimately" transgender, and is a condition to be treated through medical interventions.
Also known as truscum, transmedicalists are people, both trans and cisgender, who believe gender dysphoria and the desire to medically transition are criteria to being legitimately trans.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Transpawn
A person with one or more transgender or non-binary parent or caregiver. Typically, a term used for self identification only.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Transsexual
1) An older term that originated in the medical and psychological communities. As the gay and lesbian community rejected homosexual and replaced it with gay and lesbian, the transgender community rejected transsexual and replaced it with transgender. Some people within the trans community may still call themselves transsexual. Do not use transsexual to describe a person unless it is a word they use to describe themself. If the subject of your news article uses the word transsexual to describe themself, use it as an adjective: transsexual woman or transsexual man.
2) A term which refers to people who consider or use medical interventions such as hormone therapy or gender-affirming surgeries, also called sex reassignment surgery (SRS) or pursue medical interventions as part of the process of expressing their gender. A less frequently used—and sometimes misunderstood—term (considered by some to be outdated or possibly offensive, and others to be uniquely applicable to them). Some transsexual people do not identify as transgender and vice versa. Like the term queer, due to its varying meanings, use this term only when self-identifying or quoting someone who self-identifies as transsexual.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Transphobia
Animosity, hatred, or dislike of trans and gender-expansive people that often manifests itself in the form of prejudice and bias. Transphobia often stems from lack of knowledge about transgender people and the issues they face and can be alleviated with education and support. PFLAG does not use this term as it frequently prevents such educational dialogue. Related to biphobia and homophobia.
Source: https://pflag.org/glossary/
T4T
Abbreviation of Trans 4 Trans. A trans or gender-expansive person who is only interested in emotional, romantic, intimate, and/or sexual partnerships with other trans people. It centers the beauty of being trans by celebrating the diversity of trans experience. T4T relationships allow trans people space from having to explain their genders or experiences to cisgender partners.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Two-Spirit
1) An adjective used by some Indigenous and First Nations people as an umbrella term to describe people who are not straight and/or cisgender. Many Indigenous communities have specific words in their language to describe these experiences, but some do not. This term should not be used to describe people who are not Indigenous. Only use it for an Indigenous person if they use it to describe themselves.
2) A term used within some American Indian (AI) and Alaska Native (AN) communities to refer to a person who identifies as having both a male and a female essence or spirit. The term, created in 1990 by a group of AI/AN activists at an annual Native LGBTQ conference, encompasses sexual, cultural, gender, and spiritual identities, and provides unifying, positive, and encouraging language that emphasizes reconnecting to tribal traditions. Non-indigenous people should not use this term. (With thanks to Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board NPAIHB The term derives from the northern Algonquin term niizh manitoag, meaning “two spirits,” and refers to the inclusion of both feminine and masculine components in one individual (Anguksuar, 1997).
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
U
V
Voguing
A highly stylized, modern, street-style dance, stemming from New York City ballroom culture [particularly in neighborhoods-of-color in Harlem and the Bronx] in the late 1980s. Vogue was created and has been nurtured by Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ people inspired by Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphics, as well as poses found in Vogue Magazine.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
A highly stylized, modern, street-style dance, stemming from New York City ballroom culture [particularly in neighborhoods-of-color in Harlem and the Bronx] in the late 1980s. Vogue was created and has been nurtured by Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ people inspired by Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphics, as well as poses found in Vogue Magazine.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
W
WLW
1) An acronym that stands for “women loving women.” Refers to women who are attracted to women, whether or not they are attracted exclusively to other women. This term is inclusive of but not limited to lesbian, bisexual, and pansexual women and nonbinary people who identify with womanhood. Similar to sapphic.
2) Some other terms that use the gender-loving-gender format include MLM (men loving men), NBLNB (nonbinary loving nonbinary), NBLW (nonbinary loving women), WLNB (women loving nonbinary), MLNB (men loving nonbinary), and NBLM (nonbinary loving men).
Women Loving Women, refers to lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, or otherwise same-gender loving women (pronounced “W-L-W” or “wuh-luh-wuh”). Often used in communities of color, this specification grew from the historical notion that any woman who had emotional, romantic, intimate, and/or sexual partnerships with women as lesbians. As more understandings of sexuality have come to light, WLW has largely replaced lesbian as a unifying term to describe these women.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Woman
An adult female human being. An adult who lives and identifies as female though they may have been said to have a different sex at birth.
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/woman
WPATH
An acronym for the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. It was formerly known as the Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association (HBIGDA). This association is responsible for publishing the Standards of Care, which establishes guidelines for the treatment of transgender people.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
WSW
An abbreviation for Women Who Have Sex with Women. Reports on STIs and in public health commonly use this term, although those who identify as WSW may or may not identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
1) An acronym that stands for “women loving women.” Refers to women who are attracted to women, whether or not they are attracted exclusively to other women. This term is inclusive of but not limited to lesbian, bisexual, and pansexual women and nonbinary people who identify with womanhood. Similar to sapphic.
2) Some other terms that use the gender-loving-gender format include MLM (men loving men), NBLNB (nonbinary loving nonbinary), NBLW (nonbinary loving women), WLNB (women loving nonbinary), MLNB (men loving nonbinary), and NBLM (nonbinary loving men).
Women Loving Women, refers to lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, or otherwise same-gender loving women (pronounced “W-L-W” or “wuh-luh-wuh”). Often used in communities of color, this specification grew from the historical notion that any woman who had emotional, romantic, intimate, and/or sexual partnerships with women as lesbians. As more understandings of sexuality have come to light, WLW has largely replaced lesbian as a unifying term to describe these women.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
Woman
An adult female human being. An adult who lives and identifies as female though they may have been said to have a different sex at birth.
Source: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/woman
WPATH
An acronym for the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. It was formerly known as the Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association (HBIGDA). This association is responsible for publishing the Standards of Care, which establishes guidelines for the treatment of transgender people.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
WSW
An abbreviation for Women Who Have Sex with Women. Reports on STIs and in public health commonly use this term, although those who identify as WSW may or may not identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Source: https://www.edi.nih.gov/people/sep/lgbti/safezone/terminology
X
Y
Z
Include *sorted by relevancy and will invoke other Indexed extensions.
To streamline the fact that other databases are far more exhuastive and we will promote them, while promoting a baseline of the most relevant language for allies and the public at large moving forward.
* Vision redirect in terms of content relevance and reasources to be allocated in the future.
Consider a caveat that new submissions may be considered moot unless we are collecting from all known dictionaries? this is a bifrication that may need to be rectified (all or nothing or adjust course regarding effort for this content)
In short: Promote other dictionaries before growing our own past a certain point and vote on additions regarding optimum relevancy. We need people to read and use what is written here in daily life.
To streamline the fact that other databases are far more exhuastive and we will promote them, while promoting a baseline of the most relevant language for allies and the public at large moving forward.
* Vision redirect in terms of content relevance and reasources to be allocated in the future.
Consider a caveat that new submissions may be considered moot unless we are collecting from all known dictionaries? this is a bifrication that may need to be rectified (all or nothing or adjust course regarding effort for this content)
In short: Promote other dictionaries before growing our own past a certain point and vote on additions regarding optimum relevancy. We need people to read and use what is written here in daily life.
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