queer
Queer (adj) means relating to a sexual orientation or gender identity that isn't exclusively heterosexual or cisgender; used both as a reclaimed identity term and, historically, as a slur. Example: “The festival celebrates queer artists and filmmakers.”
How to use queer
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDepending on context: either "strange/unusual," or an identity term for LGBTQ+ people, which many now use with pride but which some older speakers still remember as an insult.
As an identity term, queer has been widely reclaimed, especially by younger LGBTQ+ people, but it can still land as offensive to those who experienced it as a slur — context and who's speaking both matter.
Word forms
queerer comparative, more queer comparative, queered past tense, queers plural, queers singular, queerest superlative, most queer superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The festival celebrates _____ artists and filmmakers.
Etymology
Recorded in Scots from around 1510, probably from a Low German word meaning "oblique" or "off-center." It began to be used to describe gay people in the late 19th century.
Related words
Rhymes for queer
See all rhymes for queer →Frequently asked questions
Why do some people avoid using the word queer?
Some people avoid "queer" because it has historically been used as a slur against LGBTQ+ people, and not everyone is comfortable with its reclaimed use as an identity term. Others embrace it as a positive, inclusive umbrella term, so acceptability often depends on the speaker and the specific community.
What is the meaning of queer?
"queer" (adj) means relating to a sexual orientation or gender identity that isn't exclusively heterosexual or cisgender; used both as a reclaimed identity term and, historically, as a slur.
What is another word for queer?
Other words for "queer" include odd, unusual, peculiar, curious, bizarre.
What are the different meanings of queer?
"queer" has 2 main meanings: 1. Relating to a sexual orientation or gender identity that isn't exclusively heterosexual or cisgender; used both as a reclaimed identity term and, historically, as a slur; 2. Strange, odd, or unusual.
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