LGBTQ is an acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (or Questioning). This term is commonly used to describe those whose sexual orientations or gender identities differ from the heterosexual or cisgender majority. Here’s the meaning behind each letter in the LGBTQ:
L (Lesbian): A woman that is emotionally, romantically and/or sexually attracted to another woman.
G (Gay): Individuals that are attracted to the same gender, usually referring to men that is emotionally, romantically and/or sexually attracted to men
B (Bisexual): Individuals that are emotionally, romantically and/or sexually attracted to the same gender or the opposite gender
T (Transgender): Individuals whose gender indentities differ from sex at birth
Q (Queer): Individuals that are exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity, and also referring to those who do not conform to the existing ideas of sexuality/gender.
Now the LGBTQ term has further evolved into LGBTQIA+ to be more inclusive:
I (Intersex): Individuals that are born with both male and female’s sex characteristics.
A (Asexual): Individuals that do not feel sexually attracted to another person, even though they may experience emotional/sexual attraction.
+: Representing those sexual orientations, gender identities and subcultures that are not fully represented in the letters of the acronym of LGBTQIA.