Gay and straight meaning
Glossary
This is a list of carefully researched and thoughtfully discussed definitions for key gender and sexuality terms.&#; It is by no means a comprehensive list, but it is a good place for us to start. Identity terms mean very particular things to other individuals.&#; The definitions provided in this document reflect the current general empathetic of these terms. We understand that language around sexuality and gender is always changing and we will review these terms regularly.&#;
If there is a term that you feel should be included here, please let us know.&#; You can email and/or call the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center at gscc@ or ()
- Getting Started
- Birth-Assigned Sex Terms
- Gender Terms
- Sexuality Terms
- Identity Terms
- Trans Community Terms
- Romantic Identity Terms
- Oppressive
- Legal, Academic, and Legislation Terms
- Historical Terms
- Racial Identity and Racial Justice Terms
To understand LGBTQIA2S+ identities and communities we must first distinguish three important concepts (gender, sex, and sexuality) and talk about the version of the acronym we are usin
Sexuality
Sexuality is deeply personal and individual to each of us. It’s about the sexual feeling and attraction that we have for others. There are different types of sexuality, and everyone’s other . It’s not as straightforward as being ‘gay’ or ‘straight’. Some people are attracted to only one sex, others are attracted to both and some to a whole range of people regardless of sex or gender. This can also change over time and based on your experiences.
Types of sexuality
There are some common labels that people use to distinguish their sexuality. This isn’t necessarily defined by who they have sex with, it’s also about how they feel and how they choose to detect themselves. All of our services are for people of any sexuality
Straight/Heterosexual
Attracted mostly to people of the opposite sex or gender.
Gay/Homosexual
Attracted mostly to people of the same sex or gender (this used to refer to boys / men but now often refers to girls / women as well).
Lesbian
Attracted mostly to people of the same sex or
Cisgender and Straight Don’t Mean the Same Thing — Here’s Why
Some people tell you what terms they use to describe themselves. For others, you might contain to ask.
If you’re not sure and you aren’t cozy asking, don’t assume the labels someone does or doesn’t use.
Remember that some people might sense uncomfortable talking about their gender or orientation, especially if they’ve experienced discrimination in the past.
If you’re unsure about what terms to use to describe yourself, take time to think about it. Read up about terms that might describe you. Inspect out forums on Reddit and Facebook groups.
You can’t always tell what pronouns someone uses by looking at them. They might state their pronouns up front, or you have to ask. Remember, it’s better to ask than to assume.
If you’d like, you can share your pronouns when you meet recent people.
For example, you could simply say “Hi! My identify is so-and-so and my pronouns are they/them.” You can also add your pronouns to your social media bios and email signature.
There are many places where you can learn
Glossary of Terms: LGBTQ
Definitions were drafted in collaboration with other U.S.-based LGBTQ people organizations and leaders. View acknowledgements section.
Additional terms and definitions about gender identity and gender verbalization, transgender people, and nonbinary people are available in the Transgender Glossary.
Are we missing a term or is a definition outdated? Email press@
*NOTE: Ask people what terms they employ to describe their sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression before assigning them a label. Outside of acronyms, these terms should only be capitalized when used at the beginning of a sentence.
LGBTQ
Acronym for queer woman, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer. The Q generally stands for queer when LGBTQ organizations, leaders, and media use the acronym. In settings offering assist for youth, it can also stand for questioning. LGBT and LGBTQ+ are also used, with the + added in recognition of all non-straight, non-cisgender identities. (See Transgender Glossary ) Both are acceptable, as are other versions of thi