What does lesbian mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈlɛzbiən/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A sexual orientation in which a person is romantically or sexually attracted to people of the same gender, or a person who identifies as such.

Examples

• The lesbian community has made significant strides in gaining acceptance.
• She identified as lesbian and was proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Synonyms

• Homosexual
• Same-sex attracted

Antonyms

• Heterosexual
• Opposite-sex attracted

Additional Information

The term “lesbian” can also refer to a person who is culturally or socially associated with lesbianism, regardless of their sexual orientation. Lesbianism has a long history, dating back to ancient Greece, where it was mentioned in the works of Sappho. Today, lesbian women and non-binary individuals face unique challenges and discrimination, but have also made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ movement.

Lesbian pride and identity have become increasingly visible in recent years, with many people embracing their sexual orientation and expressing themselves proudly. However, there is still much work to be done to achieve full equality and acceptance.

Etymology

The term “lesbian” originates from the Greek island of Lesbos, where the poet Sappho wrote about same-sex love and desire. The word “lesbian” was first used in the 19th century to describe women who loved other women.

Usage Notes

When using the term “lesbian,” it’s essential to be respectful and sensitive to the individual’s gender identity and expression. Avoid making assumptions about someone’s sexual orientation based on their appearance or behavior.

Cultural References

Lesbian characters and storylines have become more prominent in film and television, with shows like “The L Word” and “Orange is the New Black” featuring lesbian characters and relationships.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Lesbian until graduation” (a phrase used to describe women who experiment with same-sex relationships during college)

Related Words or Phrases

• Gay
• Bisexual
• Queer

Collocations

• Lesbian community
• Lesbian pride
• Lesbian relationship

Frequency of Use

The term “lesbian” is commonly used in modern language, particularly in the context of LGBTQ+ issues and discussions.

Common Misspellings

• Lesion
• Lesbein
• Lesbin