Do you know these LGBTQ+ terms that are commonly used in the queer community?
We’ve already filled you in on our fave LGBTQ+ movies, queer artists on Instagram, and the best gay bars in Hong Kong. So, now we’ve put together a list of some of the most basic LGBTQ+ terms and their definitions – ready to see if you understand what they mean?
20 LGBTQ+ terms that you need to know
1. Asexual
Asexuality broadly refers to one that experiences little to no sexual attraction to others – although there are nuances within the spectrum. Even though asexuals may not be interested in having sex, they can still seek emotional intimacy with others – and be in a healthy relationship. As asexuality does not equate to celibacy or abstinence, relationships that include asexuals may or may not include sexual activity depending on the individual. Being asexual or “Ace” is its own sexuality and can include heterosexuals, homosexuals, and everything in between.
2. Aromantic
Broadly categorised as a romantic orientation, aromantic individuals experience little to no “romantic” attraction – although, again there are ranges within the spectrum. “Aro” folks may still have sexual desires or can be asexual as well. Those on the aromantic spectrum may pursue relationships with others, with varying romantic and sexual aspects based on each individual. Strong platonic partnerships can also be formed with the same level of commitment as a romantic relationship – such is the beauty and nuance of queer connections!
3. Ally
Being an LGBTQ+ ally means that the person supports the LGBTQ+ community. This often denotes that the ally is (typically) straight and/or cisgender.
4. Bisexual
Bisexuality is a sexual orientation that refers to those that are attracted to more than one gender. Those of any gender may identify as bisexual. Fun fact: bisexuality is one of the largest demographics within the population of queer young people!
5. Biphobia
As bisexuals are perceived to possess straight-passing privilege when they’re with an opposite gender, it’s common to see people ridicule or undermine the bisexual identity. The idea that one isn’t “straight enough” or “gay enough” can result in a lot of internalised biphobia – as well as external biphobia within both the straight and gay community.
6. Cisgender
Cisgender means a person’s gender identity aligns with their birth sex. However, it doesn’t automatically mean that you’re heterosexual – so don’t get confused with these LGBTQ+ terms.
7. Coming out
Coming out or “coming out of the closet” is when a person discloses their sexual orientation or gender identity to others. People as young as 11 and old as 50 can be coming out for the first time!
8. Drag
Drag is performance art pioneered by the queer community. It usually involves individuals dressing up in partly exaggerated representations of the other genders. A large representation of drag in popular culture is cis gay men donning female attire as Drag Queens, but drag is not always cis individuals dressing as the opposite sex. Trans women and trans men have a long and rich history with drag as an art form. Being a Drag Queen or King does not automatically mean you identify with a certain sexual orientation.
9. Gay
Typically a homosexual man attracted to their own gender. The term can also include those who identify as transmasculine. However, the term “gay” is also a common umbrella term and is often used by other genders as well.
10. Gender non-conforming
Gender non-conforming refers to expressing gender in a different way from societal norms and/or from the sex one was assigned to at birth. Representations of masculinity and femininity by gender non-conforming individuals may be different from the stereotypical expressions in heteronormative culture.
11. Heteronormativity
When you meet a new female friend, do you automatically ask her whether she has a boyfriend (instead of a girlfriend)? When you talk about marriage, do you assume it’s a man and a woman instead of two men or two women? That’s heteronormativity. Assuming that cisgender heterosexuality is the norm or default is generally heteronormativity.
12. Intersex
Intersex is a general term used to describe someone born with several variations in their biological sex characteristics, which can be in terms of anatomy, chromosomes, or hormones. An intersex person broadly would not fit into heteronormative society’s definitions of a male/female gender or sex binary. It doesn’t automatically affect one’s sexual or romantic orientation.
13. Lesbian
Typically applied to a homosexual woman attracted to other women. With the lesbian community’s layered history with the gender spectrum, the term is sometimes broadened to apply to non-men attracted to non-men – like those who may identify as non-binary lesbians.
14. Non-binary
An umbrella term for people whose gender identity doesn’t sit exclusively within the binaries of “man” or “woman.” There is a vast spectrum of identifying as non-binary: As every individual’s own gender identity may be different, physical expressions of being non-binary will vary, with some opting to adopt hormone therapy or surgery while others may not alter any physical aspect of themselves.
15. Pansexual
Sometimes confused with bisexuality, pansexuality is a sexual orientation for someone who is attracted to people regardless of their gender. Pansexual individuals may be attracted to some people and not others, but gender or sex largely doesn’t matter in terms of the attraction. It’s truly what’s on the inside that counts!
16. Queer
While the term “queer” was once perceived as derogatory, the LGBTQ+ community have now largely reclaimed the word for themselves. This word is generally an umbrella term for people who are not heterosexual or cisgender and may be a more comfortable label for those who are exploring their identities.
17. Sexual fluidity
Sexual fluidity basically means that one’s sexual orientation isn’t fixed and can change over time. As sexuality is a spectrum, some may identify with a stable point within that spectrum while those who are sexually fluid may fluctuate.
18. Transgender
Being transgender refers to someone whose gender identity doesn’t align with their sex assigned at birth and may “transition” to align with said gender. Every transgender individual may choose to express their gender differently, with some utilising hormone therapy or undergoing gender-affirming surgery. Others, whether by choice or due to social, legal, or monetary reasons, may not opt for physical changes.
19. Transmasculine/Transfeminine
With the many nuances in the spectrum of gender identity, one may identify as transmasculine or transfeminine, but not necessarily as transgender. For example, a transfeminine person may have been assigned male at birth, but have a gender identity or expression that is more feminine – although not entirely female. In fact, some may physically transition to align more with a masculine or feminine expression, but still not identify as strictly a man or woman.
20. Transphobia
Transphobia refers to prejudice and discrimination towards trans people. This can be as prevalent as laws being passed to block access to trans healthcare, or as underlying as purposeful misgendering, fixation on genitals or surgeries, or general ridicule.
[This article was originally published in June 2018 and updated in 2024 by Min Ji Park.]
