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LGBTQ slang, LGBTQ speak, queer slang, or gay slang is a set of English slang lexicon used predominantly among LGBTQ+ people. It has been used in various languages since the early 20th century as a means by which members of the LGBTQ+ community identify themselves and speak in code with brevity and speed to others.[1][2]
LGBTQ slang has played an integral part in LGBTQ+ culture for decades. Slang language initially emerged as a way for queer people to communicate with one another while avoiding detection by mainstream society.[3] Queer people have always existed,[4] but historically, they have had to be discreet about their identities and lives, particularly when being LGBTQ+ was illegal and or socially condemned.
LGBTQ slang is used as a way to signal one's identity and build solidarity within the community. When queer people use these certain words and phrases, they demonstrate to others that they are part of the LGBTQ+ community and share a common experience. This connection can create a sense of belonging for those historically rejected and isolated by mainstream society.[5]
LGBTQ slang is also used by the community as a means of reclaiming language and deconstructing oppressive norms. Queer slang often includes playful references to sexual acts, which can serve as an assertion of sexual agency and a rejection of shame.[6]
- ^ Baker, Paul (2002). Polari – The Lost Language of Gay Men. Routledge. p. 1. ISBN 9780203167045. Archived from the original on 15 November 2023. Retrieved 17 January 2010.
- ^ Long, Daniel (1996). Formation Processes of Some Japanese Gay Argot Terms. Vol. 71. Duke University Press. pp. 215–224.
- ^ Gill, Liz (14 July 2003). "Lavender linguistics". The Guardian. ProQuest 189144744. Archived from the original on 8 April 2023. Retrieved 18 April 2023.
- ^ "Queer People Have Always Existed—Teach Like It". Learning for Justice. 2021-03-12. Archived from the original on 2023-04-06. Retrieved 2023-04-06.
- ^ Katz-Wise, Sabra L.; Rosario, Margaret; Tsappis, Michael (December 2016). "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth and Family Acceptance". Pediatric Clinics of North America. 63 (6): 1011–1025. doi:10.1016/j.pcl.2016.07.005. PMC 5127283. PMID 27865331.
- ^ "A Former Slur Is Reclaimed, And Listeners Have Mixed Feelings". NPR. Archived from the original on 2023-04-06. Retrieved 2023-04-06.