Gay
/ɡeɪ/
Definitions
2 meaningsSexually attracted to people of the same sex; homosexual.
/ɡeɪ/
Attracted to people of the same sex
The pride parade celebrates the gay community.
💡 Simply: Being gay means you are romantically or sexually attracted to other people who are the same gender as you. Like, if a boy likes boys or a girl likes girls.
👶 For kids: When you like someone of the same gender, like a boy liking a boy or a girl liking a girl.
More Examples
She identifies as a gay woman.
The organization provides support for gay youth.
How It's Used
"The gay community has a long history of activism."
"He is gay, and proud of it."
Cheerful; merry.
/ɡeɪ/
Cheerful and lively
The children were gay and full of laughter at the party.
💡 Simply: If someone's feeling gay, it means they are happy and full of joy, like when you get a great present or have a fun day at the park.
👶 For kids: Happy and full of fun!
More Examples
The garden was filled with gay flowers in the spring.
The old meaning of 'gay' is simply happy, like a gay song or a gay occasion.
How It's Used
"The birds sang gay melodies in the morning."
"They were in a gay mood after their win."
Idioms & expressions
gay rights
Rights and social justice issues concerning the LGBT community.
"The activist is a strong proponent of gay rights."
gay marriage
Marriage between people of the same sex.
"Gay marriage has become legal in many countries."
Originally derived from Old French *gai* meaning 'merry, joyful', it evolved to encompass same-sex attraction in the 20th century.
Initially, the word 'gay' meant 'merry' or 'joyful.' Its association with homosexuality began in the early 20th century and became more common in the latter half.
Memory tip
Think of 'G' for 'Gender' and 'A' for 'Attraction'.
Word Origin
"merry, joyful"