What does LGBTQ mean?

Have you stumbled on these letters or heard someone use them and not quite sure about its meaning? LGBTQ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer.

You may also see LGBTQ+, many feel Queer is an umbrella all-inclusive all-encompassing term. Other Don,t and will add the “+” symbol to represent the full spectrum of the community.

On social media, in marketing, in texting, and generally anywhere you may see other variations. Basically here is what each letter represents and for definitions and a broader list check out our List of LGBTQ+ terms with definitions.

• L = Lesbian
• G = Gay and/or Genderqueer. Sometimes two G’s are presented
• B = Bisexual
• T = Transgender
• Q = Queer and/or questioning sometimes a second Q is provided
• I = Intersex
• A = Asexual
• P = Pansexual and/or Polygamous
• A = a second A is for Allies and/or Aromantic. Sometimes all three A’s will be present
• K = Kink

Here are some variations you may see:

• LGBTQI
• LGBTIQ
• LGBTQAI
• LGBTQAI+
• LGBTI
• GLBT
• LGBTQIAP
• LGBTQIAPK
• LGGBTQQIAAAPPK

Check out these additional guides:

• Guide to 72 LGBTQ+ Pride Flags
• Introduction of the new LGBTQ+ Intersectional Pride flag
• Understanding Gender Identity and Expression 101
• List of LGBTQ+ terms with definitions

About the author: Dennis Velco

An LGBTQ social entrepreneur who focuses on strengthening the global LGBTQ+ through connecting, engaging, online, and in person.