What in the world does LGBTIQ mean?

Human sexuality is complex, and the terms we use to refer to its numerous manifestions often make it seem even more confusing. So, to help you out, we've compiled a glossary of terms that we use related to sexuality and gender.

(By the way, LGBTIQ is an acronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersexed, and queer persons).

Sex: The biological classification of individuals based on reproductive organs/functions and genitalia. Sexes are classified as male, female, and intersexed.

Gender: The socio-cultural classification of individuals according to socially/culturally constructed (invented) characteristics which are then attributed to the different biological sexes. If sex is 'female and male', then gender is 'femininity and masculinity'. A person’s gender identity is their perception of themselves as male, female, intersexed, and/or transgendered.

Homophobia: Irrational fear, hatred, or prejudice towards homosexuals

Heterosexism: The institutional and ideological domination of heterosexuality as the only legitimate expression of sexuality and familial partnership

Lesbian: A woman who is emotionally and/or physically attracted to other women

Gay: A person who is emotionally and/or physically attracted to members of the same sex. Although all-encompassing, this term refers mainly to men

Bisexual: A person who is emotionally and/or physically attracted to members of both the same and the opposite sex

Transgenderism: The transgression of gender norms. It is an umbrella term that includes people who are transgendered, transsexual, or transvestites

Transgender: A person whose gender identity and/or expression is not in accordance with socially defined gender roles and norms

Transexual: A person who desires to change his/her sex either partly or completely to express his/her gender identity

Transvestite: A person who enjoys dressing in clothing of the opposite sex. This term refers mostly to men who may or may not be heterosexual

Intersexuality: The biological ambiguity of sexual and reproductive organs

Queer: A person who transgresses established gender and sexual norms. Queer refers to LGBTIs as well as heterosexual persons who live outside hetero-patriarchal norms.