LGBTQIA+ TERMS

A sexual orientation generally characterized by not feeling a desire for partnered sexuality, yet still having sexual fantasies. Aegosexual individuals may experience some sexual desire, attraction, or arousal, but feel removed from the experience. (Source: OULGBTQ+ Society “Ace & Aro Spectrum Definitions)

Affectional orientation is attraction or non-attraction to other people characterized by the expression or non-expression of love. This may be through falling in love or through a desire to partner an individual(s). Affectional orientation can be fluid and people use a variety of labels to describe their affectional orientation. (See also: Orientation) (Source: UC Davis "Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity 101")

A person who does not identify with or experience any gender. Agender individuals may use any pronouns and have various ways of expressing their gender (or lack of it). (Source: Portland.gov Glossary of LGBTQ+ and Gender Terms”)

The pervasive system of discrimination and exclusion that oppresses asexual people based in the belief that everyone does and should experience sexual attraction. This may be through prejudice, hatred, or hostility. (Source: Healthline “What are the Different Types of Attraction”)

A sexual orientation generally characterized by sexual attraction or a desire for partnered sexuality. An allosexual person would not be on the asexual spectrum. (Source: UC Davis “LGBTQ+ Glossary”)

Is the action of working to end oppression through the support of, and as an advocate with and for, a group other than one's own. Being an ally is a lifelong process. It is not self-defined. The work and efforts must be recognized by those you are allies with. (Source: Forbes “Allyship- The Key To Unlocking The Power of Diversity”)

Identifying and/or presenting as neither masculine nor feminine (Source: AACRAO “Glossary”)

Aromantic orientation is generally characterized by not feeling romantic attraction or a desire for romance. Aromantic people can be satisfied by friendship and other non-romantic relationships. Some aromantic people are also asexual, while others desire sexual relationships. (Source: Healthline “What are the Different Types of Attraction”)

 an umbrella term for all identities under the aromantic spectrum. Ace-spec is also used as an identity term (Source: AUREA “All Terms”)

A sexual orientation generally characterized by not feeling sexual attraction or a desire for partnered sexuality. It is also used as an umbrella term. Asexuality is distinct from celibacy, which is the deliberate abstention from sexual activity. Some asexual people do have sex. There are many diverse ways of being asexual. Some asexual people are also aromantic, while others desire romantic relationships. (Source: AUREA “All Terms”)

An umbrella term for all identities under the aromantic spectrum. Ace-spec is also used as an identity term. (Source: AUREA “All Terms”)

A Spectrum (abbrev.: a-spec): An umbrella term for orientations that belong under the aromantic or asexual spectrum. A-spec is also used as an identity term. A spectrum and a-spec are terms that may also be used by individuals with autism. (Source: AUREA “All Terms”)

a term used to describe individuals who were assigned either female or male at birth. (See also: Sex Assigned at Birth) (Source: NYP "LGBTQ+ Terminology/ Vocabulary Primer")

Attraction can be defined as an affinity or a liking for something or someone. Some, but not all types of attraction include: aesthetic, emotional, intellectual, physical/sensual, platonic, romantic, and sexual. (Source: Verywell Mind “What Are the Types of Attraction”)

Aesthetic Attraction: attraction that focuses on physical appearance or attributes; attraction towards the way someone presents themselves

Emotional Attraction: the desire to get to know and connect with someone; the desire to be emotionally present with someone

Intellectual Attraction: the desire to engage someone in an intellectual way; attraction focused on someone's mind, thoughts, and/or conversation

Physical/Sensual Attraction: the desire to give or receive touch in a physical (but not in a sexual) way; the desire to touch, hold, or cuddle someone

Platonic Attraction: the desire to be friends and have a close bond with someone; the desire to have relationships that are intimate and loving

Romantic Attraction: attraction that focuses on romantic contact or interest with other person(s)

Sexual Attraction: attraction that focuses on the desire for sexual contact or showing sexual interest for other person(s)

(Source: UNC-Chapel Hill “Asexuality, Attraction, and Romantic Orientation” | Healthline “What are the Different Types of Attraction”)

BDSM is an acronym for Bondage and Discipline, Dominance and Submission, Sadism, and Masochism. BDSM refers to a wide spectrum of activities and forms of interpersonal relationships. While not always overtly sexual in nature, the activities and relationships within a BDSM context are almost always eroticized by the participants in some fashion. Many of these practices fall outside of commonly held social norms regarding sexuality and human relationships. Folks in the BDSM community are not necessarily part of the LGBTQIA+ community, however, members may self-identify with the community. The LGBTQIA+  and BDSM movement must work (often simultaneously) to be accepted by mainstream society (Source: UC Davis "Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity 101")

a part of the queer community composed of queer men similar in looks and interests, most of them big, hairy, friendly, and affectionate.  The community aims to provide spaces where one feels wanted, desired, and liked. It nourishes and values an individual’s process of making friends and of learning self-care and self-love through the unity and support of the community.  Bears, Cubs, Otters, Wolves, Chasers, Admirers, and other wildlife comprise what has come to be known as the Brotherhood of Bears and/or the Bear community. (See also: Ursula) (Source: UC Davis "Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity 101")

"Being out" means not concealing one's sexual orientation or gender identity. Not all LGBTQIA+ folks are out, for a variety of reasons. Their decisions to "be out" or not to "be out" should be respected. (Source: UC Davis “LGBTQ+ Glossary”)

Biphobia is prejudice, fear, or hatred directed towards bisexual people, as defined by HRC.org. It can include making jokes or comments based on myths and stereotypes that seek to undermine the legitimacy of bisexual identity. Biphobia occurs both within and outside of the LGBTQIA+ community. (Source: HRC "Bisexual FAQ")

A person whose primary sexual and affectional orientation is toward people of their same gender and of other genders, or towards people regardless of their gender. Another definition is being attracted to two (or more) genders. (Source: UCSF "General Definitions")

Folks of Black/African descent and/or from the African diaspora who recognize their queerness/LGBTQIA identity as a salient identity attached to their Blackness and vice versa. (T. Porter) This identity term recognizes the identities of Black and Queer are inseparable and irreducible. The term "BlaQueer" was first coined by Tabais Wilson. (Source: WesMaps “BlaQueer Sounds”)   

Bottom surgery is a gender-affirming surgery for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals that alter the genitals and/or reproductive system. Trans individuals have the right to not discuss their surgical history. Not all transgender and gender non-conforming individuals choose to have surgery, and all individuals are valid in their transition process. (Source: NIH “Terms and Glossary”)

The deliberate abstention from sexual activity. People choose to be celibate and not engage in sex for a variety of personal reasons. Those who are celibate deserve respect and should not be asked about their reasoning. (Source: UC Davis "Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity 101")

A chosen family is a family that is chosen by an individual to support, teach, comfort, and offer kinship to them. A chosen family may be related by blood or marriage, but this is not a requirement to be considered family. They may have titles such as "mother" or "sister," depending on how the individual wants to label these relations. Anyone can have a chosen family, but chosen families are often created by queer people out of necessity. Many queer individuals may not be able to turn to their biological parents or families, because their biological families may not accept them as they are. Thus, queer and trans folks often create chosen families that support, accept, and affirm who they are. (Source: FairyGodBoss "People in the Queer Community are Learning Their 'Chosen Family' - Here's Why That's Important)

a gender identity, or performance in a gender role, that society deems to match the person’s assigned sex at birth.  The prefix cis- means "on this side of" or "not across."  Cisgender is not a gender itself but speaks to a gendered experience of staying with the gender often associated with the sex assigned at birth. Often just shortened to cis and placed before a person’s gender (i.e., cis man or cis woman). Before the term cisgender was coined, our language did not have a term for people who are not transgender. People would use terms like "normal" or "regular," which others and does not recognize those who are transgender. The term "cisgender" was created to make our language more fair, inclusive, and accurate. (Source: UC Davis “LGBTQ+ Glossary” | Trans Hub “What does cis mean?”)

A set of lifestyle norms, practices, and institutions that promote binary alignment of biological sex, gender identity, and gender roles; assume cisgender gender identities as a fundamental and natural norm; and privilege cisgender gender identities above all other gender identities (including those that identify as transgender, nonbinary, or on the gender spectrum). (Source: LGBTQ+ Primary Hub “Heteronormativity & Cisnormativity”) 

The pervasive system of discrimination and exclusion that oppresses people whose gender and/or gender expression falls outside of cis-normative constructs. This system is 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 their assigned sex. Within the cissexism, cisgender people are the dominant/agent group and trans/gender non-conforming people are the oppressed/target group. (Source: UC Davis “LGBTQ+ Glossary”)

“Coming out" describes voluntarily sharing one's sexual orientation and/or gender identity with others. It has also been broadened to include other pieces of potentially stigmatized personal information, such as immigration status. Coming out is a lifelong process, which often starts with coming out to the self. This process usually becomes easier over time and with practice. Coming out is an incredibly personal decision, and there is no “right way” to do it.  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 the sexual orientation and/or gender identity of another public, when they would prefer to keep this information secret. (Source: RCSGD “Coming Out”)

A term to describe a person who dresses, at least partially, as a member of a gender other than their assigned sex. Cross-dressing carries no implications of sexual orientation or gender identity; anyone can cross-dress. This term has replaced “Transvestite,” which is considered out of date, derogatory, and no longer appropriate to use. Cross Dressers may or may not be trans. (Source: Revel & Riot “LGBTTIQQ2SAA+ DEFINITIONS”)

Takes into consideration the fact that the social identities (race, gender, socioeconomic status, etc.) do, in fact, affect equality. In an equitable environment, an individual or a group would be given what was needed to give them an equal advantage. This would not necessarily be equal to what others were receiving. It could be more or different. Equity is an ideal and a goal, not a process. It ensures that everyone has the resources they need to succeed. (Source: Florida Tech “Culturally Competent Terms”) (See also: Equality)

Facial Reconstructive Surgery is a combination of gender-affirming procedures for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals to have a more gender-affirming appearing face. Some procedures are surgical, while others are not. Not all transgender and gender non-conforming individuals choose to undergo facial reconstructive surgery, and all individuals are valid in their transition process. (Source: Johns Hopkins “FAQ: Facial Gender Surgery”)

People (or a community) who enjoy role-playing primarily as anthropomorphic animals, creatures, or characters, either through costumes, or/and varying art mediums. The furry community at large is diverse in sexual orientation and gender identity. (Source: EMAC “LGBTQIA+ Terminology") 

Often used as an umbrella term to describe a sexual and affectional orientation toward people of the same gender. It can also be used by a man who is sexually or romantically attracted to other men. This term is preferred over the terms "homosexual" or "homosexuality," which are outdated. (Source: We Are Family “LGBTQI+ Glossary of Terms”)

A social construct used to classify a person as a man, woman, or some other identity. Fundamentally different from the sex one is assigned at birth, although someone's gender may correlate with their sex assigned at birth. (Source: UC Davis “LGBTQ+ Glossary”)

Gender-affirming surgeries give transgender and gender non-conforming individuals a body that aligns with their gender. It may involve procedures on the chest (Top Surgery), face (Facial Reconstructive Surgery), or genitalia (Bottom Surgery). Not all transgender and gender non-conforming individuals choose to have surgery, and all individuals are valid in their transition process. (Source: Cleveland Clinic “Gender Affirmation”) (See also: Bottom Surgery, Facial Reconstructive Surgery, and Top Surgery)

Gender euphoria is the positive or blissful emotions some transgender people feel regarding their body or appearance. This is often felt when one’s gender expression aligns with their gender identity. This may be felt when someone accepts themselves and their gender identity, when other people recognize their gender identity and call them by the right name and pronouns, and when someone feels “right” and comfortable in their body. Gender euphoria is the opposite of dysphoria, which is characterized by negative emotions. Not every transgender and gender non-conforming person experiences euphoria, and how it is experienced varies from person to person. (Source: Mayo Clinic “Gender dysphoria”) (See also: Gender Dysphoria)

Gender expansive is an umbrella term used to describe individuals whose gender expression or identity expands beyond societal gender norms. (Source: NIH “Terms and Definitions”)

A person whose gender identification and presentation shifts, whether within or outside of societal, gender-based expectations; being fluid in motion between two or more genders. (Source: St. Lawrence University “Common Terms and Vocabulary”)

The felt and internal sense of gender. What our gender is, which may or may not correspond with the sex one is assigned at birth. (Source: Stonewall “List of LGBTQ+ terms”)

The pervasive system of discrimination and exclusion that oppresses people whose gender and/or gender expression falls outside of cis-normative constructs. This system is 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. Within cissexism, cisgender people are the dominant/agent group and trans/gender non-conforming people are the oppressed/target group. (Source: UC Davis “LGBTQ+ Glossary")

Gender neutral refers to not being gendered. This is used in reference to language (such as pronouns), spaces (like bathrooms), and more (such as colors or professions). It is not used to describe people. (Source: PFLAG “PFLAG National Glossary of Terms”)

Gender non-conforming is an umbrella term for people who do not follow society’s ideas or stereotypes about how they should appear or act based on the gender correlated with their sex assigned at birth. Gender non-conforming individuals may use any pronouns and be of any gender identity. Some GNC individuals also identify as trans, but not all. (Source: Verywell Mind “What Does Gender Nonconforming Mean?”)

A person who refuses to be defined by conventional definitions of male and female. (Source: Portland Gov. “Glossary of LGBTQ+ and Gender Terms”)

A person whose gender identity and/or gender expression falls outside of the dominant societal norm for their assigned sex, is beyond genders, or is some combination of them. (Source: UCSF “General Definitions”)

Gender questioning refers to a person that may be processing, questioning, or exploring their gender identity. (Source: AACRAO “Term Glossary”)

Gender roles are the expectations and behaviors deemed appropriate for a person’s gender. These roles are based on cultural norms and often reinforce the gender binary. Individuals often find gender roles to be restrictive and harmful. (Source: PFLAG “PFLAG National Glossary of Terms”)

A person who varies from the expected characteristics of their assigned gender. This term is often used in the medical community. Some individuals may not identify with this term, because the word "variant" may imply that these identities are abnormal. (Source: PFLAG “PFLAG National Glossary of Terms”)

Graysexual is a sexual orientation in which someone experiences sexual attraction to a limited extent. They may feel sexual attraction rarely or with low intensity. Graysexual is often included under the ace/aro spectrum, however, some individuals do not identify under the ace/aro spectrum. (Source: Healthline “What exactly does graysexual mean?”) 

A set of lifestyle norms, practices, and institutions that promote binary alignment of biological sex, gender identity, and gender roles; assume heterosexuality as a fundamental and natural norm; and privilege monogamous, committed relationships and reproductive sex above all other sexual practices. (Source: ALiGN “ALiGN Guide: Gender norms, LGBTQI issues and development”)

Homonormativity privileges certain relationships in the queer community, particularly cisgender white middle-class gay men. Homonormativity may also refer to the assumption that LGBTQIA+ folks will conform to mainstream heterosexual culture. This would expect LGBTQIA+ folks to conform to heterosexual expectations of monogamy, marriage, and children. (Source: CFCA LGBTQIA+ Glossary of Common Terms)

Hormone blockers is a gender-affirming practice for transgender and gender non-conforming youth that uses certain types of hormones to pause pubertal development. The benefits of hormone blockers may include improved mental health, decreased gender dysphoria, and, in some cases, eliminate the need for future surgeries However, hormone blockers alone may not fully ease gender dysphoria. Not all transgender and gender non-conforming youth choose to take hormone blockers, and all individuals are valid in their transition process. (Source: Mayo Clinic “Pubertal Blockers”)

Hormone Replacement Therapy is a gender-affirming practice for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals that generates physical and emotional changes in the body. There are two types of hormone therapy: Estrogen (feminizing hormones) may decrease libido, increase breast growth, and more, and Testosterone (masculinizing hormones) may grow more facial/body hair, deepen one’s voice, and more. Hormone therapy can affirm one’s gender identity, decrease feelings of dysphoria (for those who experience it), and improve mental health. Individuals should consult their doctors before undergoing HRT. Not all transgender and gender non-conforming individuals choose to undergo hormone therapy, and all individuals are valid in their transition process. (Source: Metrohealth “Hormone Replacement Therapy” | NIH “Terms and Definitions”)

Identity first language puts the identity first in the description before the person. This identity may include a disability, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender. Some examples of identity first language are "Black woman" and "autistic person." Some individuals prefer to use identity first language that their identity is an essential part of who they are. However, some may not prefer identity first language because they find it minimizing. They are not their identity, their disability, condition; they simply have an identity, disability, or condition. Always check in with someone to find out their preferred language preferences. How a person chooses to self-identity is up to them, and they should not be corrected if they choose to use identity person language. (See also: Person First Language)(Source: EARN “Person First and Identity First Language")

For some intersex people, their intersex identity can strongly affect their relationship to their gender identity. Some may identify as intergender, a non-binary gender that reflects this relationship. Intergender individuals may identify as between the genders of man and woman, or a combination of them. “Intergender” has been used by individuals who are not intersex, but many in the intersex community believe it should only be used by intersex people. (Source: LGBTQIA+ Wiki “Intergender”) (See: Intersex)

 A term made popular by law professor Dr. 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.

Adjective used to describe the experience of naturally (that is, without any medical intervention) occurring variations in reproductive or sex anatomy that do not fit neatly into society's definitions of male or female. Variations may appear in a person’s chromosomes, genitals, or internal organs. Intersex is an umbrella term, and there are around 30 variations of intersex that are included in this umbrella term. Intersex people are relatively common, although society's denial of their existence has allowed very little room for intersex issues to be discussed publicly. Intersex advocates work to end unnecessary cosmetic and medical surgery on intersex youth. “Hermaphrodite” is an outdated and inaccurate term that has been used to describe intersex people in the past. (Source: interACT “Intersex Definitions”)

A term used to describe keeping one’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity private. Someone who is “in the closet” may only share this personal information with partners and close friends, or not at all. Their decision to not disclose this information should be respected. (Source: VeryWell Mind “What Does It Mean to Be ‘In the Closet?’”) (See also: Coming Out)  

Most commonly referred to as unconventional sexual practices from which people derive varying forms of pleasure and consensually play-out various forms of desire, fantasies, and scenes.

A community which encompasses those who are into leather, sado-masochism, bondage and domination, uniform, cowboys, rubber, and other fetishes. Although the leather community is often associated with the queer community, it is not a "gay-only" community.

(Usually:) A woman whose primary sexual and romantic orientation is toward people of the same gender. This term may be used by women and folks who fall under the gender-nonconforming umbrella. (Source: HRC “Glossary of Terms”)

The acronym LGBTQIA+ stands for “Lesbian,” “Gay,” “Bisexual,” “Trans,” “Queer” or “Questioning,” “Intersex,” “Asexual” or “Aromantic” or “Agender,” and “+”. The “+” stands for all the folks whose specific identities may not be in the acronym, but are still part of the LGBTQIA+ community. More recently, a LGBTQ2+ has come into use to recognize Two-Spirit people. (Source: NYT “The ABCs of LGBTQIA+”)

The practice of confronting heterosexism, sexism, genderism, allosexism, and monosexism in oneself and others out of self-interest and a concern for the well being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual people. Is founded on the belief that dismantling heterosexism, monosexism, trans oppression/trans misogyny/cissexism, and allosexism is a social justice issue.

Lived Names/Chosen Names/Names in Use are used interchangeably to indicate names other than legal names that an individual uses. There are many reasons someone may use a lived name, such as to reflect their gender identity, use a nickname, or to go by an Americanized name. Lived names are often referred to as "preferred names," but one’s lived name is not a preference. It is a requirement to honor a person’s identity and to use the name by which they ask to be called. (Source: Johns Hopkins “Supporting Chosen Names and Pronouns”)

Brief and commonplace daily verbal, behavioral, or environmental indignities, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative slights and insults about one’s marginalized  identity/identities. (D.W. Sue)

An acronym that stands for “Marginalized Orientations, Gender Alignments, and Intersex.” It is used by some in a similar way to the umbrella acronym: LGBTQIA+. It is also used to refer to a subset of the LGBTQIA+ community that is vocal against gatekeeping and the use of microlabels. (Source: UW Milwaukee “Glossary of Terms”)

People who have romantic, sexual, or affectional desire for one gender only. Heterosexuality and homosexuality are the most well-known forms of monosexuality.

Mx. (pronounced "Mix") is a gender inclusive salutation.

A non-binary gender identity that falls under the genderqueer or transgender umbrellas. There is no one definition of Neutrois, since each person that self-identifies as such experiences their gender differently. The most common ones are: Neutral-gender, Null-gender, Neither male nor female, Genderless, and/or Agender.

Gender is often misrepresented as two opposing genders- a binary of man or woman. However, there are a lot more genders that fall outside of that binary. Nonbinary people have a gender that is different than “woman” or “man.” For some, nonbinary is their gender. For others, nonbinary is an umbrella term which encompasses their gender. Some nonbinary people may also identify as trans, but not all. (Source: Trans Equality “Understanding Non-Binary People: How to Be Respectful and Supportive”)

Possessing all genders. The term is used specifically to refute the concept of only two genders.

 An attraction to all genders with a preference to one over the others.

Orientation is 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 include: aesthetic, emotional, intellectual, physical/sensual, platonic, romantic, and sexual. (Source: UNC-Chapel Hill “Asexuality, Attraction, and Romantic Orientation” | Healthline “What are the Different Types of Attraction”)

Revealing a person’s sexual or gender identity, HIV status, or Immigration status without the person’s expressed consent or permission. Outing someone should never occur; it is a violation of privacy and an inherently harmful act. It removes the person’s choice to come out, and potentially puts their safety at risk. (Source: LGBTQ and ALL “What is Outing and Why is it Harmful?”) 

 An attraction to all genders without a preference: either not seeing genders or choosing for it to not be a determinant factor.

Refers to a trans person’s ability to be “correctly” perceived as the gender they are and not be perceived as trans. Not every trans person’s goal is to pass. 

Person first language emphasizes the person before their identity. This identity may include a disability, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender. Some examples of person first language are “women of color” and “person with a disability.”   Always check in with someone to find out their preferred language preferences, as some may prefer Identity First Language to reflect that their identity is an essential part of who they are. How a person chooses to self-identify is up to them, and they should not be corrected if they choose not to use person first language. (See also: Identity First Language) (Source: EARN “Person First and Identity First Language")

Denotes consensually being in/open to multiple loving relationships at the same time. Some polyamorists (polyamorous people) consider “polyam” to be a relationship orientation. Sometimes used as an umbrella term for all forms of ethical, consensual, and loving non-monogamy.

Exhibiting characteristics of multiple genders, deliberately refuting the concept of only two genders.

Pronouns are used in everyday speech and writing to take the place of people's names. 

Example: Naomi transferred to UCSB this year. They are excited to get involved on campus!

We frequently use them without thinking about it. Often, when speaking of someone in the third person, these pronouns have a gender implication. These associations are not always accurate or helpful because you cannot tell what pronouns someone uses by the way they look.

One definition of queer is abnormal or strange. Historically, queer has been used as an epithet/slur against people whose gender, gender expression, and/or sexuality do not conform to dominant expectations. Some people have reclaimed the word queer and self identify as such. For some, this reclamation is a celebration of not fitting into norms/being “abnormal.” Manifestations of oppression within gay and lesbian movements such as racism, sizeism, ableism, cissexism, transmisogyny as well as assimilation politics, resulted in many people being marginalized, thus, for some, queer is a radical and anti-assimilationist stance that captures multiple aspects of identities. (Source: UC Davis “LGBTQ+ Glossary”) 

Queer Coding is when a character in media is not explicitly stated as queer, but they are coded as queer by giving the audience enough subtext to read them as such. Queer coding is not inherently positive or negative. Historically, queer characters were coded as queer because queer identities were not accepted. More recently, queer coding has been used in a negative way. Many villains have been queer coded, which negatively impacts queer people. (Source: Book Riot “What is Queerbaiting vs. Queer Coding?”)

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.

Romantic Orientation is attraction or non-attraction to other people characterized by the expression or non-expression of love. This may be through falling in love or through a desire to partner with an individual(s). Romantic orientation can be fluid and people use a variety of labels to describe their romantic orientation. Individuals may use -romantic as a suffix with the same prefixes that people use in defining their sexuality. For example, they may use panromantic, biromantic, aromantic, and more! (See also: Orientation) (Source: UC Davis "Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity 101")

A term used by some Black and African American people who love, date, and have attraction to people of the same gender. The term was coined in the early 1990s by activist Cleo Manago. Manago created the term to more adequately reflect the Black experience of sexual identity. (Source: dictionary.com “same-gender loving”)

People on the ace/aro spectrum experience different attitudes towards sex. Sex-Favorable means that an individual may be open to experiencing sexual activity. They may find physical or emotional pleasure from these acts. (Source: OULGBTQ+ “Ace & Aro Spectrum Definitions”)

People on the ace/aro spectrum experience different attitudes towards sex. Sex-Indifferent means that an individual may be open to experiencing sexual activity occasionally or only in certain situations. They may not particularly experience physical or emotional pleasure from these acts, but they do not feel distressed from it. (Source: OULGBTQ+ “Ace & Aro Spectrum Definitions”)

People on the ace/aro spectrum experience different attitudes towards sex. Sex-Repulsed means that an individual is not open to experiencing sexual activity. They may feel distress at the thought or mention of sexual activity. (Source: OULGBTQ+ “Ace & Aro Spectrum Definitions”)

Sexual Orientation is attraction (or non-attraction) to other people characterized by interest or desire for sexual contact. Sexual orientation can be fluid and people use a variety of labels to describe their sexual orientation. Individuals may use -sexual as a suffix with prefixes that define their sexual orientation. For example, they may use pansexual, bisexual, asexual, and more! (See also: Orientation) (Source: UC Davis “LGBTQ+ Glossary")

A person or people in a committed relationship consensually engaging in sexual activity with others.

Top surgery is a Gender-Affirming Surgery for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals that changes the appearance of the chest. Some individuals may remove breast tissue for a more masculine appearance, and some may increase breast size and alter shape for a more feminine appearance. Trans individuals have the right to not discuss their surgical history. Not all transgender and gender non-conforming individuals choose to have surgery, and all individuals are valid in their transition process. (Source: NIH “Terms and Glossary”)

The asterisk placed after Trans has been used in many different ways. Some folks think of it as being more inclusive towards gender non-conforming and nonbinary folks. But others have offered critique that it feels exclusionary towards GNC and nonbinary folks for enforcing a binary expectation to “fill in the blank" for trans man or trans woman.  There have also been discussions/critique regarding the origin of the asterisk.

Often shortened to Trans woman. A woman who was assigned male at birth. A person may choose to identify this way to capture their gender identity as well as their lived experience as a transgender person Some trans women may also use MTF (Male to Female) or M2F (Male to Female) to describe their identity.

Transgender is not a gender itself but speaks to a gendered experience of moving away in some way from the gender often associated with the sex assigned at birth. Often just shortened to trans and placed before a person’s gender (i.e., trans man or trans woman, trans nonbinary). It is also used often as an umbrella term. It can describe a wide range of identities and experiences of people whose gender and/or expression differs from conventional expectations based on their assigned sex at birth. 

Transmisogyny describes the intersecting oppressions and discriminations of transphobia and misogyny. Transphobia is the discrimination and oppression of trans people for their gender expression. Misogyny is the hatred and devaluation of women and of femininity. Transmisogyny primarily affects trans women and transfeminine people. However, it also affects trans and nonbinary folks who may be perceived as feminine. (Source: Carey Sokja "Transmisogyny" | BWSS "Transmisogyny 101")

Transphobia is the discrimination and oppression of trans people for their gender expression. This may be subtle or overt forms of discrimination, but consists of fear, hatred, disbelief, and distrust of trans people. Transphobia primarily affects trans people. However, it may also affect individuals who are thought to be transgender, who do not conform to traditional gender roles, or who are under the gender non-conforming umbrella. (Source: Planned Parenthood "What's Transphobia?")

A person who lives full-time in a gender different from their assigned birth sex and gender. Many pursue hormones and/or surgery. This term is becoming outdated and problematic. This term should not be used for a trans person unless they specifically use the term to describe themselves. 

This is an outdated and problematic term due to its historical use as a diagnosis for medical/mental health disorders. Cross Dresser has replaced transvestite. (See also: Cross Dresser)

“[This] term stems from the Ojibwe phrase niizh manidoowag and replaces the outdated, oversimplified term berdache, which appeared frequently in research and anthropological studies that aimed to describe the place of gay men in Native society in the 18th and early 19th centuries […] The phrase ‘two spirit’ began to gain traction across Native America after 1990, when 13 men, women, and transgender people from various tribes met in Winnipeg, Canada, with the task of finding a term that could unite the LGBTQ Native community. […]For me, the term ‘two spirit’ resists a Western definition of who we are and what we should be. Two spirit [people] are integral to the struggle of undoing the impacts of historical trauma, because our roles in tribes historically were part of the traditions taken away from us with Westernization.” - Zachary Pullin (Chippewa Cree), May/June 2014 Issues of Native Peoples. There are a variety of definitions and feelings about the term “two spirit” – and this term does not resonate for everyone.  

Some lesbians, particularly butch dykes, also participate in Bear culture referring to themselves with the distinct label Ursula. (See also: Bear)

Some people spell this word with an “x” or a “y” as a form of empowerment to move away from the “men” in the “traditional” spelling of women. This term recognizes that in the past, the history of feminism has included racism, transphobia, and has adhered to the gender binary. This term attempts to be inclusive of trans and nonbinary people. However, there are issues with the use of this word. Using “womxn” to refer to trans women others implies that they aren’t actually women. Similarly, using “womxn” to refer to nonbinary people ignores the fact that many nonbinary people do not want to be associated with womanhood and are not impacted by women’s issues. Lastly, the word becomes a meaningless gesture without a call to action to improve the lives of womxn. Always check in with someone about their preferred language practices, as some may prefer the term womxn, while others may not. (Source: UCI “Why Womxn with a ‘X’”)