lesbianism
Women loving women
Lesbianism is sexual and romantic attraction between women, or the practice of such relationships.
The term derives from the Greek island of Lesbos, home of the ancient poet Sappho, whose verses celebrated love between women.
She came out and embraced lesbianism in her twenties.
The word can sound clinical or dated compared to alternatives like "being a lesbian" or "being gay."
Public declaration of identity
- self-acceptanceApproval of oneself
- sapphicWomen attracted to women
- butchMasculine in manner
- femmeFeminine-presenting queer person
dyke · closeted · out · visibility · gender-nonconforming · androgyne · self-discovery · questioning
Love and its excitement
- partnershipShared business arrangement
- intimacyEmotional closeness between people
- commitmentFirm pledge to act
- relationshipConnection between entities
devotion · companionship · soulmates · tenderness · passion · bonding · fidelity · couples
Direct effort for reform
- equalitySame status for all
- discriminationUnjust differential treatment
- harassmentAggressive, unwanted targeting
- stigmaMark of dishonor
Refracted light arc
- visibilityRange of clear sight
- empowermentGaining authority or confidence
- paradeCeremonial public procession
- celebrationFestive event marking occasion
liberation · Stonewall · affirmation · diversity · flags · marches · violet · lavender
Bond among women
- meetupsArranged social gatherings
- solidarityUnity among allies
- mentorshipGuidance from experienced person
- eldersSenior community members
coming-out
Public declaration of identity
- self-acceptanceApproval of oneself
- sapphicWomen attracted to women
- butchMasculine in manner
femme · dyke · closeted · out · visibility · gender-nonconforming · androgyne · self-discovery · questioning · authentic
romance
Love and its excitement
- partnershipShared business arrangement
- intimacyEmotional closeness between people
- commitmentFirm pledge to act
relationship · devotion · companionship · soulmates · tenderness · passion · bonding · fidelity · couples · wife
activism
Direct effort for reform
- equalitySame status for all
- discriminationUnjust differential treatment
- harassmentAggressive, unwanted targeting
stigma · protest · lobbying · legislation · non-discrimination
rainbow
Refracted light arc
- visibilityRange of clear sight
- empowermentGaining authority or confidence
- paradeCeremonial public procession
celebration · liberation · Stonewall · affirmation · diversity · flags · marches · violet · lavender · reclamation
sisterhood
Bond among women
- meetupsArranged social gatherings
- solidarityUnity among allies
- mentorshipGuidance from experienced person
Sappho
Ancient Greek woman poet