Queer

:For the novel by William S. Burroughs, see Queer (novel).

Related Topics:
William S. Burroughs - Queer (novel)

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Queer has traditionally meant 'strange' or 'unusual', but is now most often used in reference to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities. Its usage is controversial and underwent substantial changes over the course of the 20th century. It is considered by some to be offensive and derisive, and by others merely an inoffensive adjective or noun for people whose sexual orientation and/or gender identity or gender expression does not conform to societal norms.

Related Topics:
Lesbian - Gay - Bisexual - Transgender - Controversial - Sexual orientation - Gender identity - Gender expression - Norm

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Its current usage dates back to the early 20th century, when men in the New York urban and suburban areas began using it to describe themselves and their subculture. Derived from the Old English term 'quare' , meaning questioned or unknown, the term was meant as a "code word" to hide them from the so-called 'straight world'.

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