Language plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of identity, community, and inclusivity. For LGBTQIA+ individuals, terminology is more than just words—it’s a reflection of lived experiences, self-expression, and the ongoing fight for recognition and equality.
However, as society evolves, so does the language we use to describe gender, sexual orientation, and identity. Understanding these terms is essential for fostering respectful and affirming conversations, whether in healthcare, education, the workplace, or everyday interactions.
This guide will explore key LGBTQIA+ terms, breaking down their meanings and significance. From foundational terms like gender identity and sexual orientation to evolving language within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, we aim to provide a comprehensive, inclusive, and educational resource.
Whether you’re part of the community, an ally, or someone looking to learn, this article will help you navigate LGBTQIA+ terminology with clarity and respect.
Extensive List of LGBTQIA+ Terms and Definitions
Understanding LGBTQIA+ terminology is essential for fostering respect, inclusivity, and affirming conversations. Below is a comprehensive list of key terms related to gender identity, sexual orientation, and LGBTQIA+ experiences.
Core LGBTQIA+ Terms
- LGBTQIA+ – An inclusive acronym representing Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and other diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. The “+” acknowledges the full spectrum of identities.
- Lesbian – A woman (cisgender or transgender) who is romantically or sexually attracted to other women.
- Gay – A person who is romantically or sexually attracted to people of the same gender. Often used for men but can apply to all genders.
- Bisexual (Bi) – A person who is attracted to more than one gender, though the degree of attraction may vary.
- Transgender (Trans) – An umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
- Queer – A reclaimed term used as an umbrella identity for people who are not heterosexual and/or cisgender. It can be empowering but should be used with sensitivity, as it was historically used as a slur.
- Questioning – Someone who is exploring their gender identity or sexual orientation.
- Intersex – A person born with natural variations in sex characteristics, such as chromosomes, hormones, or anatomy, that do not fit typical definitions of male or female.
- Asexual (Ace) – Someone who experiences little to no sexual attraction to others, though they may still form romantic, emotional, or platonic relationships.
- Pansexual (Pan) – A person attracted to people regardless of gender identity.
- Nonbinary – An umbrella term for people whose gender identity does not fit within the traditional binary of male or female.
- Genderfluid – A gender identity that changes over time or fluctuates between genders.
- Agender – A person who does not identify with any gender or sees themselves as gender-neutral.
- Two-Spirit – A term used by some Indigenous North American cultures to describe a sacred, nonbinary gender identity that embodies both masculine and feminine spirits.
- Demisexual – A person who experiences sexual attraction only after forming an emotional connection with someone.
Gender Identity and Expression Terms
- Cisgender (Cis) – A person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth (e.g., someone assigned female at birth who identifies as a woman).
- Gender Dysphoria – The distress or discomfort a person may feel due to a misalignment between their gender identity and their assigned sex at birth.
- Gender Euphoria – The joy or comfort a person experiences when their gender identity is recognized, affirmed, or expressed in a way that aligns with their sense of self.
- Gender Expression – The external presentation of one’s gender, including clothing, behavior, voice, or mannerisms. It may or may not align with societal expectations.
- Masculine/Feminine/Androgynous – Terms describing how a person expresses their gender through appearance, clothing, or behavior.
- Deadnaming – The act of referring to a transgender or nonbinary person by their birth name, rather than their affirmed name. This is often harmful and invalidating.
- Pronouns – Words used to refer to someone in place of their name (e.g., she/her, he/him, they/them, xe/xem). Respecting pronouns is a fundamental part of affirming someone’s identity.
- AMAB (Assigned Male at Birth) / AFAB (Assigned Female at Birth) – Terms used to describe the sex a person was designated at birth, which may or may not align with their gender identity.
- Transition – The process by which a person aligns their physical appearance, social role, and/or legal identity with their gender identity. This can include medical, legal, and social changes, but not all transgender people choose to transition in the same way.
Sexual Orientation & Relationship Terms
- Heteronormativity – The assumption that heterosexuality is the norm, leading to societal structures that privilege straight relationships.
- Compulsory Heterosexuality (CompHet) – The societal expectation that everyone is naturally straight, which pressures individuals—especially women—to conform to heterosexual norms.
- Monosexual – A term for people who are attracted to only one gender, such as heterosexual or homosexual individuals.
- Polysexual – A person who is attracted to multiple genders but not necessarily all genders.
- Allosexual – A person who experiences sexual attraction, in contrast to asexual individuals.
- Romantic Orientation – Describes whom a person experiences romantic attraction to, which may differ from their sexual orientation (e.g., a person can be asexual but biromantic).
- Polyamory – A relationship style in which a person engages in multiple consensual, romantic, or intimate relationships at the same time.
Medical and Healthcare Terms
- Gender-Affirming Care – Medical, social, and psychological support for transgender and nonbinary individuals, including hormone therapy, surgeries, counseling, and social support.
- Binding – The practice of using compression garments to flatten the chest, commonly used by transmasculine and nonbinary individuals.
- Tucking – The practice of flattening external genitalia to align with a person’s gender identity.
- HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) – The use of hormones like testosterone or estrogen to align a person’s body with their gender identity.
- Top Surgery / Bottom Surgery – Surgical procedures that alter the chest or genitalia as part of gender-affirming care.
Common Misconceptions & Microaggressions
- “Sex and Gender Are the Same Thing” – False. Sex refers to biological characteristics, while gender is a social and personal identity.
- “You Can Tell Someone’s Gender Just by Looking at Them” – False. Gender identity is internal and personal, and assumptions based on appearance can be harmful.
- “Being Transgender Is a Phase” – False. Gender identity is deeply personal and valid, regardless of when someone realizes it.
- “Nonbinary People Are Just Confused” – False. Nonbinary identities have existed across cultures and history and are a legitimate, recognized aspect of gender diversity.
Why LGBTQIA+ Terminology Matters
Using accurate and inclusive language:
✅ Validates LGBTQIA+ identities and experiences.
✅ Reduces discrimination, stigma, and misunderstandings.
✅ Encourages open, respectful conversations in healthcare, workplaces, and social settings.
✅ Fosters a more inclusive and affirming society for all.
As language continues to evolve, it’s important to stay informed, listen to LGBTQIA+ voices, and respect the identities of others. By embracing inclusive terminology, we create a world where everyone feels seen, valued, and respected.