The Bigender Pride Flag represents individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community who identify as bigender. Bigender people experience two gender identities, either simultaneously or varying between them at different times. The flag is a visual symbol designed to embody the bigender identity, reflecting the distinct genders that a bigender person identifies with. The specific design of the Bigender Pride Flag can vary, but it often incorporates colors or elements that represent masculinity and femininity, as well as other gender identities, to encompass the full range of the bigender experience. The flag serves as a symbol of pride, recognition, and visibility for bigender individuals, advocating for acknowledgment and acceptance within both the LGBTQIA+ community and society at large.

Billy Porter is a prominent African American actor, singer, and style icon known for his vibrant personality and trailblazing fashion choices that often challenge traditional gender norms. He gained widespread acclaim for his role as Pray Tell in the television series "Pose," which explores the lives of LGBTQIA+ characters in the ballroom culture of New York City during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Porter is celebrated not only for his professional achievements in entertainment but also for his outspoken advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility, making significant contributions to cultural and media representation and discussions around gender expression and presentation.

Binding refers to the practice of flattening one's breast tissue to create a male-appearing chest. This is a common practice among transgender men, non-binary, and genderqueer individuals who seek to present themselves in a way that is more aligned with their gender identity. Binding can be done using specially designed binders, compression garments, sports bras, or other materials. While binding can play a significant role in alleviating gender dysphoria and helping individuals present in a way that feels authentic to them, it's important to follow safe binding practices to avoid physical health risks, such as damage to the ribcage or lungs.

Biological sex refers to the physical characteristics, such as chromosomes, hormone levels, and reproductive/sexual anatomy, that are used to classify an individual as male, female, or intersex at birth. It is a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors and does not always fit neatly into the binary categories of male or female. This concept is distinct from gender identity, which is the internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum. The recognition of biological sex as a spectrum rather than a binary is important in acknowledging the diversity of human bodies and experiences, including those of intersex individuals, and challenges traditional understandings of sex that exclude variations in sex characteristics.

Biphobia refers to the fear, hatred, mistrust, or discrimination against bisexual individuals or bisexuality as a sexual orientation. This can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to, denying the validity of bisexuality (insisting that individuals must choose to be either straight or gay), perpetuating stereotypes about bisexuality (such as promiscuity or indecisiveness), and excluding or marginalizing bisexual individuals from both heterosexual and homosexual communities. Biphobia can have significant negative impacts on the mental health and wellbeing of bisexual individuals, contributing to feelings of isolation, invisibility, and invalidation within broader societal and LGBTQIA+ contexts.

"The Birdcage" is a 1996 American film that showcases the life of a gay cabaret owner and his drag queen partner who agree to put up a false straight front so that their son can introduce them to his fiancée's right-wing moralistic parents. The film is noted for its humorous and poignant exploration of the complexities of gay identity, family dynamics, and societal perceptions of LGBTQIA+ individuals. It brings to light the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in conforming to traditional norms to gain societal acceptance while also celebrating the authenticity and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Biromantic refers to an individual who experiences romantic attraction to two or more genders. This romantic orientation is distinct from sexual orientation; a biromantic person may or may not be sexually attracted to those genders to which they are romantically attracted. The term emphasizes the emotional and relational aspect of attractions, highlighting that one's romantic preferences can be broader or different from their sexual preferences.

Bisexual is a sexual orientation that describes an individual who experiences emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to more than one gender. Bisexuality acknowledges the capacity for individuals to be attracted to people of the same gender as themselves, as well as to people of different genders. This attraction does not have to be equally split or fit any specific pattern and can vary over time. Bisexuality challenges binary perceptions of sexuality and highlights the fluid nature of sexual attraction. It's an integral part of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, advocating for recognition and acceptance in broader societal and queer contexts. Bisexual individuals may face specific challenges such as bisexual erasure (the questioning of the validity of bisexuality as an orientation) and biphobia (prejudice against bisexual people), both within and outside the LGBTQIA+ community.

The Bisexual Flag represents the bisexual community within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. It consists of three horizontal stripes: pink at the top, representing attraction to the same gender; blue at the bottom, signifying attraction to different genders; and a thinner purple stripe in the middle, blending pink and blue to symbolize attraction to both same and different genders. The flag was designed to increase visibility for bisexual individuals, affirming their experiences and identity. It serves as a symbol of pride, unity, and solidarity, challenging misconceptions and promoting a broader understanding of bisexual identity beyond binary perspectives of sexuality.

Bitchy Gay refers to a stereotype often portraying a gay man who exhibits sass, sharp wit, and a cutting sense of humor. While some embrace this as a form of empowerment and self-expression, it can also perpetuate clichés that do not represent the diversity and complexity of gay identities. This term is sometimes reclaimed by members of the community as a badge of assertive confidence, yet it is important to be mindful of its usage to avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes.

The black hanky is a symbol used particularly among those involved in the leather and S&M (sadomasochism) subcultures, to indicate an interest in heavy S&M activities. This form of signaling, known as the hanky code, involves carrying a colored handkerchief in the back pocket of one’s jeans, with the color and side (left or right) indicating specific sexual interests and roles. The black hanky, when worn, communicates an interest in BDSM practices that may involve varying degrees of intensity and equipment, catering to a specific niche within the community.

Blaq or Blaqueer is a term used within the LGBTQIA+ community to specifically refer to Black queer individuals. It is a portmanteau of "Black" and "queer," emphasizing the intersectionality of race and LGBTQIA+ identity. This term is used to highlight the unique experiences, struggles, and cultures of Black queer people, acknowledging both the racial and LGBTQIA+ aspects of their identities. Blaqueer individuals often navigate distinct societal challenges, including racism within the broader LGBTQIA+ community and homophobia or transphobia within their racial communities. The term serves as a powerful assertion of identity and solidarity, promoting visibility and fostering a sense of community among Black queer individuals.

The term "blood ban" refers to policies or regulations that prohibit or restrict certain individuals, particularly men who have sex with men (MSM), from donating blood. This ban originated during the early years of the AIDS epidemic as a measure to prevent the transmission of HIV through the blood supply. Despite advances in testing technology and improved understanding of HIV/AIDS, many countries have maintained restrictions, although some have modified them to allow donations after a period of sexual abstinence or have implemented individual risk assessments. Critics argue that these policies are discriminatory and not based on current scientific evidence, contributing to stigma and reinforcing stereotypes about LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly gay and bisexual men.

A Blouse refers to a feminine-presenting gay man who, despite his feminine attributes, prefers to top during sexual activities. The term is a playful inversion of traditional gender roles and expectations within both the gay community and broader society. It challenges stereotypes about femininity and sexual position preferences, highlighting the diversity and fluidity of gender expression and sexual roles among gay men. This term subverts expectations by combining a traditionally feminine presentation with a preference for the sexually dominant role of a top, thereby broadening the conversation around masculinity, femininity, and sexual dynamics in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Blue DVD is a term that refers to a genre of films, specifically adult or pornographic movies that cater to a gay male audience. These DVDs often feature explicit sexual content and are intended for the entertainment and sexual expression of adult viewers. The term "blue" historically has been used to describe material considered risqué or pornographic, and when combined with "DVD," it specifically denotes the medium through which such content is distributed. While the digital age has seen a shift towards online streaming platforms, the term still persists in some circles to reference gay adult content. Blue DVDs, like other forms of adult entertainment, play a role in exploring and expressing sexual fantasies within the privacy of one's home.

A Blue Jeans Lesbian is a term used to describe a lesbian who prefers a more casual, tomboyish style, typically wearing blue jeans and other traditionally masculine attire but does not necessarily identify as butch. This term highlights the diversity within the lesbian community in terms of gender expression and fashion preferences, acknowledging that not all lesbians subscribe to the traditional dichotomy of butch and femme roles. Blue Jeans Lesbians may or may not engage with broader lesbian or LGBTQIA+ culture and activism, but their identity and style reflect the nuanced ways individuals navigate gender and sexual orientation in their daily lives.

A Blue Store refers to retail outlets or shops that specialize in selling adult content, sex toys, and other related products catering predominantly to the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly gay men. These stores often provide a range of materials including magazines, DVDs (often referred to as Blue DVDs for their adult content), lubricants, and various sexual health and pleasure products. Beyond their commercial function, Blue Stores serve as discreet spaces where individuals can explore their sexuality and gain access to sex education materials, especially in areas where such resources may be scarce or stigmatized. They play a role in supporting sexual wellness and identity exploration within the community, offering both a sense of inclusivity and a nod to the coded language historically used by LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Body image refers to individuals' perceptions, thoughts, and feelings about their own bodies. This concept is particularly nuanced in LGBTQIA+ contexts, as body image can be influenced by societal norms, gender identity, sexual orientation, and the community’s internal standards of beauty and attractiveness. For many LGBTQIA+ people, navigating body image is complex due to external pressures to conform to certain physical ideals, which can vary significantly across different subcultures within the community. Additionally, transgender and non-binary individuals may face specific challenges related to body dysphoria, where there's a conflict between one’s physical appearance and gender identity. Efforts to promote positive body image among LGBTQIA+ people emphasize acceptance, diversity, and the rejection of restrictive beauty standards, aiming to foster a healthy relationship with one’s body that aligns with their identity and sense of self.

Body policing refers to the practice of critically judging or attempting to regulate the bodies of LGBTQIA+ individuals based on societal, cultural, or community-specific norms and standards. This can involve scrutinizing aspects such as body shape, size, gender expression, and adherence to conventional beauty standards, often leading to exclusion, shame, or pressure to conform. Body policing can significantly impact the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQIA+ individuals, reinforcing stereotypes and exacerbating feelings of inadequacy or dysphoria, especially among those whose bodies do not align with traditional or expected gender norms. Efforts to combat body policing within the community focus on promoting body positivity, acceptance, and challenging narrow definitions of attractiveness and gender conformity.

A Boi Lesbian refers to an often younger or presenting in a more masculine or androgynous way, who identifies as a lesbian. The term "boi" can signify a range of gender expressions that lean towards the masculine side of the spectrum but do not conform to traditional male gender norms. It's associated with a youthful and sometimes rebellious identity, challenging conventional ideas of femininity and lesbian identity. Boi Lesbians may or may not identify with other labels such as butch, androgynous, or non-binary, emphasizing the fluidity and diversity within the community regarding gender expression and sexual orientation. This term is part of a broader dialogue within the LGBTQIA+ community about the intersections of gender identity, expression, and sexual orientation, promoting a more inclusive understanding of lesbian identities.

Bondage refers to the practice of consensually tying, binding, or restraining a partner for erotic, aesthetic, and/or sensory pleasure. It is a common aspect of BDSM (Bondage/Discipline, Dominance/Submission, Sadism/Masochism) activities and relationships, serving as a form of sexual expression or exploration of power dynamics within a consensual setting. Bondage can involve various materials like ropes, handcuffs, or restraint systems, and practices can range from light, playful restraining to more complex and elaborate bondage scenarios. It's important within these practices to prioritize consent, communication, safety, and respect for boundaries. Bondage, as a part of queer sexual culture, highlights the diversity of sexual practices within the LGBTQIA+ community and the importance of sexual health and practices; relationship structures and dynamics; personal and social identity.

"Boots" often conveys a sense of strong approval or emphasis. It's a term popularized in ballroom culture and among drag performers, essentially meaning "very" or "a lot." For example, saying "She is fierce boots" indicates that someone is exceptionally fierce. The term exemplifies how language in the LGBTQIA+ community can evolve, taking on distinct meanings and serving as an expressive tool within cultural practices.

"Boots the house down" is a phrase that originated in the ballroom culture and is widely used within drag communities to express overwhelming approval or to emphasize the exceptional quality or intensity of something. It signifies that something is done with utmost effort or achieves the highest degree of fabulousness. The phrase often follows a descriptive statement to intensify its effect, such as "Her performance was incredible, boots the house down!"

Bottom primarily refers to a sexual position or role during anal sex, indicating the person who receives penetration. However, the term can also extend to describe roles in other forms of sexual activity and BDSM practices, encompassing a broader range of receptive or submissive behaviors. The concept of being a bottom is significant in discussions about sexual health, consent, and pleasure within the community. It's important to note that being a bottom is a preference and part of one's sexual identity that can influence personal and social identity, relationship dynamics, and communication about desires and boundaries. While often discussed within the context of gay and bisexual men's sexual practices, the term is applicable and embraced across a wide spectrum of LGBTQIA+ identities, including transgender and non-binary individuals, reflecting the diversity of sexual expressions within the community.

The term "bottom bunk" refers to the role of the receptive partner during sexual activities, particularly in the context of anal sex. It's a playful metaphor derived from the idea of a bottom bunk bed, suggesting the position underneath another person. This term is frequently used within the gay community to describe one's sexual position preference, but it can be relevant in other contexts where similar dynamics are discussed.

Bottom surgery refers to gender-affirming surgery aimed at altering an individual's genitalia to better reflect their gender identity. This term is commonly used within the transgender and wider LGBTQIA+ community. For transgender women (male-to-female), this may include procedures such as vaginoplasty, labiaplasty, and clitoroplasty. For transgender men (female-to-male), it can involve phalloplasty or metoidioplasty and the construction of a scrotum. Bottom surgery is a significant aspect of the transition process for many transgender individuals, helping to alleviate gender dysphoria and allowing them to live more comfortably with their gender identity. It's important to note that not all transgender people choose or require surgery to affirm their gender identity.

Bowers v. Hardwick (1986) was a landmark decision by the United States Supreme Court that upheld the constitutionality of a Georgia sodomy law criminalizing oral and anal sex in private between consenting adults when applied to homosexuals. This decision was significant for its time, as it affirmed the legality of state laws that specifically targeted homosexual acts, thereby legitimizing discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community under the guise of upholding public morality. The ruling was a major setback for LGBTQIA+ rights and was widely criticized for infringing on the privacy and equality of gay and lesbian individuals. It represented a legal endorsement of the criminalization of homosexuality, contributing to the stigma and marginalization of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Bowers v. Hardwick was eventually overturned by the Supreme Court in the 2003 case Lawrence v. Texas, which ruled that such laws were unconstitutional.

Boy or Boi typically refers to a younger person who presents themselves in a more masculine way, regardless of their gender identity. This term is especially prevalent in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender circles. Bois may identify with this term for various reasons, including but not limited to, gender expression, sexual orientation, or as a reflection of their youthful appearance or attitude. It's also used within the transgender community, particularly by those who are transitioning to a more traditionally masculine presentation but do not fully identify with conventional manhood or wish to highlight a more nuanced understanding of their gender identity. The term "boi" can signify an alternative masculinity that is softer, more youthful, and distinct from cis-normative masculinity.

Boyfriend Twins is a term used particularly among gay men, to describe couples where both individuals look strikingly similar to each other, often to the point of being mistaken for brothers. This phenomenon reflects on the broader discussions of attraction, narcissism, and identity within the gay community, highlighting how personal and social identity can influence romantic choices. The concept raises questions about the dynamics of attraction, including the desire for similarity in physical appearance, interests, and behaviors. It's also a topic of interest in cultural and media representation, as it touches on how LGBTQIA+ relationships are viewed and understood both within and outside the community. The discussion around Boyfriend Twins can intersect with conversations on gender expression and presentation, as well as stereotypes and challenges within the community, especially regarding perceptions of vanity, self-obsession, or homogamy.

Boymoder refers to a transgender woman or transfeminine individual who, for various reasons, such as safety, personal comfort, or societal pressure, presents in a traditionally masculine manner or delays social transition. This term is specific to the transgender community and highlights the complexities and challenges faced by individuals navigating gender identity in environments that may not be supportive or safe. Boymoders may engage with their gender identity privately or in safe spaces, while presenting as male in other aspects of their life to avoid discrimination, violence, or social ostracization. This term underscores the diversity of experiences within the transgender community, emphasizing that everyone's journey and expression of gender are unique and valid.

Boystown refers to neighborhoods or areas within cities that are recognized as LGBTQIA+ friendly spaces, often characterized by a high concentration of gay residents, businesses, and cultural institutions. These areas serve as vital hubs for the LGBTQIA+ community, providing safe spaces for expression, socialization, and support. Boystown neighborhoods typically feature a variety of gay bars, clubs, restaurants, bookstores, and other businesses that cater to or are owned by LGBTQIA+ individuals. Beyond their social and cultural significance, Boystowns play a crucial role in the political and economic life of the LGBTQIA+ community, acting as centers for activism, pride, and community development. The first officially recognized Boystown is located in Chicago, Illinois, but many cities around the world have similar districts that serve as focal points for LGBTQIA+ life and advocacy.

Boystown in Chicago is recognized as one of the first officially designated gay villages in the United States. It is a cultural and social hub for the LGBTQIA+ community, located within the larger Lakeview neighborhood. Boystown is renowned for its inclusive atmosphere, LGBTQIA+ owned and friendly businesses, bars, restaurants, and clubs, as well as for being the site of the Chicago Pride Parade, one of the largest LGBTQIA+ pride events in the world. This area serves not only as a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals to live, work, and socialize but also as a vibrant center of activism, cultural expression, and community advocacy. Boystown plays a crucial role in celebrating and supporting the diversity and history of the LGBTQIA+ community in Chicago and serves as a model for similar districts globally.

A "breeder" is a colloquial and often pejorative term used by some individuals to refer to heterosexual people, particularly those who have children or are capable of reproducing biologically. The term underscores the distinctions and sometimes tensions between heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ communities, especially regarding issues of marriage, family, and child-rearing. It highlights societal expectations around procreation and the traditional family model, which have historically marginalized LGBTQIA+ relationships and family structures. While used by some to critique or mock societal norms, it's important to approach the term with awareness of its potential to offend or alienate.

"Broadway" refers to the theatrical and entertainment district in New York City, particularly the area along Broadway Avenue in Manhattan. In the LGBTQIA+ community, Broadway holds significant cultural importance as a hub for theatrical productions, musicals, and performances that often resonate deeply with queer audiences. Many LGBTQIA+ individuals find a sense of belonging, identity, and expression within Broadway culture, both as creators and consumers of the art form. The term encompasses the vibrant history, creativity, and inclusivity of the Broadway community, where LGBTQIA+ artists, characters, and themes have long been celebrated and embraced.

Broadway Bares is an annual burlesque-style fundraising event organized by Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. It brings together Broadway performers and volunteers to create dazzling and provocative performances to raise money for HIV/AIDS-related causes and initiatives. The event typically features elaborate costumes, choreography, and theatrical elements, all aimed at entertaining the audience while promoting HIV/AIDS awareness and fundraising efforts.

"Broadway Cares" is an organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to individuals within the entertainment industry who are living with HIV/AIDS and other critical illnesses. It originated within the Broadway theatre community in New York City and has since expanded its reach to encompass various fundraising events, educational programs, and grant-making initiatives. Broadway Cares plays a crucial role in raising awareness, advocating for those affected by HIV/AIDS, and offering financial assistance to ensure access to lifesaving medications, healthcare, and social services.

"Brokeback Mountain" is a seminal film in LGBTQIA+ cinema, directed by Ang Lee and released in 2005. Based on Annie Proulx's short story of the same name, the film explores the complex romantic and sexual relationship between two young American cowboys, Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist, in the American West from the 1960s to the 1980s. The movie broke significant ground by bringing the conversation of homosexual love, particularly in a rural and traditionally masculine setting, to mainstream audiences. It highlighted the challenges and severe consequences of societal homophobia and internalized repression. The film’s impact resonates in its contributions to greater acceptance and visibility of gay relationships in media.

The brown hanky is part of the hanky code, a system of colored handkerchiefs used within the gay male subculture to indicate one's sexual interests and preferences. A brown hanky, when worn in the back pocket of one's jeans, traditionally signifies an interest in scat play. This practice originated in the 1970s as a discreet way for individuals in the gay leather community to communicate their sexual fetishes in social environments like bars or clubs. The hanky code plays a significant role in the history and culture of sexual expression among gay men, serving as both a tool for identification and a marker of belonging within particular subgroups.

The term "Brownie Queen" is a historical and colloquial term, particularly among gay men, used to describe a gay man with a specific preference for Latino partners. This term, like many others within the community, reflects the diversity of attraction and preferences among LGBTQIA+ individuals but also raises important discussions about racial stereotypes and fetishization. It's crucial to approach such terms with sensitivity to their implications on racial dynamics and the importance of respecting individuals beyond racial or ethnic characteristics. The use of "Brownie Queen" has diminished over time, reflecting growing awareness and critique of racial fetishization and the importance of respectful, consensual relationships that value individuals holistically.

Bubblebutt refers to a term used to describe someone who has a very round, protruding buttocks that is perceived as sexually attractive. This term is often used in a complimentary way and can apply to individuals of any gender identity. It highlights physical attractiveness and is commonly used in both casual and sexual contexts to denote admiration for one's body shape, particularly in how it relates to the buttocks being notably round and firm, resembling a bubble.

"Bugger" is a term with a complex history, originally used to denote anal intercourse. It has been used pejoratively against gay men and to criminalize homosexual acts in various legal codes historically. The word is derived from "Bulgarian," specifically referring to the Bogomils, who were a religious sect the Catholic Church considered heretical, mistakenly associating them with homosexual practices. Over time, "bugger" has been reclaimed by some within the LGBTQIA+ community as a defiant or humorous term, yet it remains sensitive and controversial due to its derogatory origins and associations with legal and social persecution. This term encapsulates the intersection of language, historical discrimination, and the ongoing reclamation and transformation of language within LGBTQIA+ cultures.

Buggery, historically, refers to an act of anal intercourse, initially associated with accusations against those practicing sodomy, which included homosexual acts among others. Within the LGBTQIA+ community, the term is intertwined with a history of legal and social persecution, as buggery laws were used in many jurisdictions to criminalize homosexual relationships. These laws not only condemned sexual acts but also contributed significantly to the stigmatization and marginalization of LGBTQIA+ individuals. The term itself is a remnant of a period when LGBTQIA+ identities were subject to severe legal penalties and societal condemnation. Over time, as activism and legal rights movements have progressed, the use of such terminology has declined in favor of more affirming language surrounding LGBTQIA+ sexualities and identities. However, the historical significance of the term "buggery" remains a testament to the struggles faced by the community and the ongoing fight against discrimination and for equality.

"Bukkake" is a term originating from Japanese adult entertainment that has permeated global adult lexicon. It describes a sexual activity where several individuals ejaculate on another person, usually as part of a group act. The term's use and cultural understanding vary widely and can be seen differently depending on the context and region discussing it. While it is primarily associated with adult content and practices, its acknowledgment in educational contexts like discussions on sexuality or pornographic literacy aims to broaden understanding of the diversity of sexual practices and the importance of consent, communication, and safe sexual health practices in all sexual activities. This term also highlights the impact of adult entertainment on global sexual culture and the ways in which practices from one culture can become known and interpreted in others.

"Bull" is often used to describe a dominant lesbian or queer person who takes on a more traditionally masculine role in relationships or sexual encounters. This term can also be used more broadly within BDSM contexts to describe a dominant partner, especially in cuckoldry scenarios where the Bull is the more dominant male having sex with a submissive female, often while her partner watches. However, its usage within lesbian or queer contexts emphasizes a blend of gender expression, sexual dynamics, and the subversion of traditional gender roles. It highlights the diversity and fluidity of roles and identities within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, challenging conventional perceptions of gender and sexuality.

A "Bull Dyke" is a term that traditionally refers to a lesbian who presents herself in a masculine way. This term can be both a self-identifier and a stereotype, depending on the context in which it is used. Historically, it has been employed pejoratively but has been reclaimed by some within the lesbian community as a point of pride, representing strength, independence, and a rejection of traditional gender norms. It speaks to the diversity of gender expression within the community, highlighting that femininity and masculinity are not confined to biological sex or heteronormativity. The reclamation of the term also reflects the broader movements within LGBTQIA+ culture towards embracing and celebrating identities that defy conventional expectations.

Burlesque is a form of performance that combines satire, parody, and exaggeration with striptease, dance, and theatricality. In the LGBTQIA+ context, burlesque serves as a powerful medium for exploring and expressing diverse gender identities, sexual orientations, and body positivities. It offers performers and audiences alike a space to challenge traditional norms of beauty, gender, and sexuality, celebrating diversity and fluidity through art. LGBTQIA+ burlesque shows often feature a wide range of performers including drag queens, drag kings, transgender individuals, and cisgender allies, all contributing to a vibrant and inclusive cultural expression. This art form not only entertains but also empowers participants and promotes visibility and acceptance for marginalized identities within the community.

"Bussy" is a portmanteau of the words "boy" and "pussy," used particularly among gay and queer men, to refer to the anus. The term is colloquial and can range in use from humorous and light-hearted to erotic and explicit, depending on the context. It is part of a larger lexicon of queer slang that reimagines and reclaims language, giving unique expression to gay male sexuality and the body. While "bussy" is embraced by some for its playful subversion of gender and sexual norms, it is also subject to critique for reinforcing gender binaries or for its potential to offend based on its vulgarity and objectification. The term reflects the ongoing evolution of queer language and the diverse ways in which the LGBTQIA+ community negotiates identity, desire, and embodiment.

Butch is a term used to describe a person, usually a lesbian or a transgender man, who expresses themselves in a traditionally masculine way. This can include their choice of clothing, haircut, behaviors, and roles in relationships. Butch identity is about the embodiment of masculinity by those who may not conform to societal expectations based on their gender assigned at birth. It's a form of gender expression that challenges conventional gender norms and offers a space for individuals to live authentically according to their own understanding of their gender and sexuality. While historically associated with lesbian identity, butchness is embraced by a range of individuals across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, highlighting the fluidity and diversity of gender expression.

Butch Dyke refers to a lesbian who identifies with and presents a traditionally masculine appearance and mannerisms. This identity is not just about fashion choices (like preferring short hair and clothing typically associated with men) but also encompasses a broader spectrum of gender expression and roles within relationships. Butch dykes may embrace qualities considered masculine by societal standards, challenging traditional notions of gender and sexuality. The term "dyke" has been reclaimed by many in the lesbian community as a term of strength and solidarity. However, it's important to use such terms with understanding and respect, as they can carry different connotations depending on the context and individual preference.

A Butch Queen refers to a gay man who identifies with or presents traits typically associated with traditional masculinity, but who does not fully reject or distance themselves from their connection to the gay or queer community. Often used within the context of ballroom or drag culture, a Butch Queen might participate in events and competitions showcasing their ability to embody masculine aesthetics and personas while still engaging with and being part of LGBTQIA+ culture. The term can highlight the fluidity of gender expression and the diversity of identities within the gay community, acknowledging that masculinity can be performed and celebrated in various ways by individuals who do not conform to heterosexual norms.