The whole lgbtq name
Like our LGBTQ community, the LGBTQ acronyms and definitions are always growing and changing. This growth is a good thing and is indicative of the increasing inclusivity of the variance of gender, sexuality, and identity within our community.
But what execute all these LGBTQ acronyms and letters stand for and mean? Some are historic terms that are returning into fashion, some are words that used to be derogatory but now have been reclaimed, and some are trademark new to better distinguish the nuances within the LGBTQ community.
While this is by no means a definitive list, it will explain the more frequent and commonly used LGBTQ acronyms.
LGBT Acronym:The Classic
Although no longer seen as fully inclusive, the classic four-letter LGBT acronym has become internationally synonymous with the queer community. . This is the most well-known of all the acronyms, debuting back in the mid-1980s as a way to unite the community and move away from the often derogatory-laced “homosexual” (among other words). Originally, it began as just LGB, with the transgender “T” coming in later.
LGBTQ Acronym: The Doubt of Q
The “Q” in the LGBTQ acronym is probably the most confu
List of LGBTQ+ terms
A
Abro (sexual and romantic)
A word used to explain people who have a fluid sexual and/or sentimental orientation which changes over time, or the course of their life. They may use different terms to describe themselves over time.
Ace
An umbrella term used specifically to describe a lack of, varying, or occasional experiences of sexual attraction. This encompasses asexual people as well as those who identify as demisexual and grey-sexual. Ace people who experience affectionate attraction or occasional sexual attraction might also employ terms such as homosexual, bi, lesbian, straight and queer in conjunction with asexual to describe the direction of their quixotic or sexual attraction.
Ace and aro/ace and aro spectrum
Umbrella terms used to depict the wide group of people who experience a lack of, varying, or occasional experiences of quixotic and/or sexual attraction, including a lack of attraction. People who identify under these umbrella terms may describe themselves using one or more of a wide variety of terms, including, but not limited to, asexual, ace, aromantic, aro, demi, grey, and abro. People may also use terms such as gay, bi, lesbian, linear
Struggling to understand the LGBTQIA+ meaning of the acronym? You’re not alone.
For many people who are new to the LGBTQIA+ community, this acronym can come across confusing or overwhelming.
If you are fresh, welcome! We’re so glad you’re here with us today.
And if you aren’t new to the community, but are curious to understand more about how the community has changed over the years, we’re delighted you’ve joined us today, too.
The way the LGBTQIA+ society interacts – both with each other and with the world around us – is constantly changing. We struggle to include everyone and to create everyone feel seen and understood.
What Does LGBTQIA+ Mean?
For many years, the umbrella term “gay” was used to illustrate the community.
Now, many people worry about how to approach out, but coming out before the 1970s wasn’t even an option, as many states illegalized what they called “homosexuality” or “sodomy.” There was also no acronym at all, restricting the inclusivity of our community.
Once an acronym appeared, all versions of it began with “L” – for an significant reason.
In the preliminary days of the gay rights movement, the lesbian collective often felt dismissed or
Not sure what the LGBTQIA+ acronym stands for? That’s okay! It’s changed many times throughout history – here’s our guide to what it means.
The LGBTQIA+ acronym stands for Lesbian, Gay, Multi-attracted , Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual and/or Aromantic, with the + representing other identities that don’t quite fit other labels, or identities that we don’t quite have the language to describe yet.
What does all that mean?
Lesbian
A lesbian is a woman who is attracted to another woman. Lesbians can be cisgender or transgender – there are loads of ways to identify as a lesbian. You might encounter folks who prefer the synonyms lesbian, or they might also outline themselves simply as "gay". You might also hear the word "sapphic" to describe women who are attracted to other women.
Gay
Gay is most commonly used to describe someone who is attracted to someone of the same identified gender. It can be used by cisgender or transsexual people. It’s straightforward to default to using “gay” to describe someone who you know isn’t straight – so remember to examine with people regarding what they’re most comfortable with.
Bisexual
Bisexual is used to detail someone who is attracted to multiple gender
LGBTQIA Resource Center Glossary
GLOSSARY
The terms and definitions below are always evolving, switching and often mean unlike things to different people. They are provided below as a starting signal for discussion and empathetic. This Glossary has been collectively built and created by the staff members of the LGBTQIA Resource Center since the prior 2000s.
These are not universal definitions. This glossary is provided to help grant others a more thorough but not entirely comprehensive understanding of the significance of these terms. You may even consider asking someone what they signify when they use a term, especially when they use it to explain their identity. Ultimately it is most important that each individual define themselves for themselves and therefore also define a legal title for themselves.
“If I didn't define myself for myself, I would be crunched into other people's fantasies for me and eaten alive.” -Audre Lorde
This glossary contains terms, such as ableism and disability, that may not be considered directly related to identities of sexuality or gender. These terms are essential to acknowledge as part of our mission to challenge all forms of oppress