A Drag King is a performer, often but not exclusively female or assigned female at birth, who adopts a male persona in clothing, makeup, and demeanor for the purposes of entertainment, expression, or art. Drag kings perform a wide range of masculine identities, from exaggerated hyper-masculinity to subtle and nuanced male expressions. This art form explores, critiques, and plays with gender norms and performances, offering a space for performers and audiences alike to question and engage with the concept of gender. Drag kings are an integral part of the LGBTQIA+ community and drag culture, contributing to the visibility of gender diversity and the fluidity of gender expression.

A Drag Queen is a performer who adopts a female persona through elaborate costumes, makeup, and theatricality, often for purposes of entertainment, artistic expression, or social commentary. This form of artistry celebrates gender fluidity and challenges traditional notions of gender identity and expression. Drag queens play a pivotal role in LGBTQIA+ culture, using their performances to explore, critique, and celebrate the complexities of gender and sexuality. Through their exaggerated femininity, drag queens often highlight the performative aspects of gender, encouraging audiences to question societal norms and embrace diversity. Drag queens are integral to many LGBTQIA+ events, community gatherings, and pride celebrations, symbolizing resilience, empowerment, and the joy of self-expression.

Drag Queen Story Hour is an event where drag queens read books to children in libraries, schools, or bookstores, focusing on themes of diversity, acceptance, and gender fluidity. The initiative aims to foster a sense of acceptance and inclusivity among young audiences, demonstrating that people who differ from traditional gender norms are not only normal but should be celebrated for their uniqueness. It serves as an educational tool that promotes literacy while also introducing children and families to the concept of gender diversity in a fun, engaging, and accessible way. These events highlight the importance of embracing one's true self and understanding the wide spectrum of human identity.

"Drag Race" refers to a competitive event or show where drag performers, including drag queens and drag kings, showcase their makeup, costume, lip-syncing, and performance skills in a contest format. Originating from the underground ballroom culture, drag races have become mainstream thanks to popular television shows. These events are celebrated within the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond for highlighting the artistry, creativity, and resilience of drag culture, offering visibility and a platform for performers to express their identities and talents. Drag races often involve challenges designed to test a wide range of skills, including fashion design, comedy, dance, and acting, celebrating the diversity and richness of drag performance art.

The duck-walk is a dance move that involves a dancer squatting down on their haunches and kicking their legs out as they move forward, which is iconic within the ballroom and vogue dance scenes primarily amongst the LGBTQIA+ community. This move, often performed during "voguing" battles, showcases agility, rhythm, and style, contributing to the expressive dance competitions that celebrate gender fluidity, performance, and LGBTQIA+ culture. It is not only a dance technique but also a form of individual and communal expression within the community.

"Dyke" is a term historically used pejoratively against lesbian and queer women, but it has been reclaimed by many within the LGBTQIA+ community as a term of strength, solidarity, and identity. This reclamation is a form of empowerment, turning an insult into a badge of pride. The word signifies resilience and defiance against discrimination, celebrating the diversity and complexity of lesbian and queer femininity. It's important to note that while many embrace the term, its use can still be sensitive and should be approached with respect to individual preferences. The term highlights the community's capacity to transform negative language into symbols of community and power.

A "Dykon" is a portmanteau of the words "dyke" and "icon," referring to a public figure, typically a woman, who is not necessarily lesbian herself but is idolized by the lesbian and broader LGBTQIA+ community. These figures often embody strength, independence, and non-conformity to traditional gender roles or expressions, resonating with lesbian and queer individuals in ways that inspire admiration and emulation. A dykon can be a celebrity, musician, or any influential person who, through their work, style, or persona, has become a symbol of empowerment or has shown significant support for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility. The term celebrates the intersection of celebrity culture with queer identity and community solidarity.

"Dynasty" is an American television series that originally aired in the 1980s, known for its dramatic portrayal of a wealthy and powerful family involved in the oil business. While not specifically an LGBTQIA+ show, "Dynasty" is significant to the community for featuring one of television's first openly gay characters, Steven Carrington. His character dealt with various personal and social challenges related to his sexual orientation, marking a pivotal moment in the portrayal of LGBTQIA+ characters in mainstream media. The inclusion of Steven and his storylines opened up discussions about gay rights and visibility, offering representation during a time when it was limited and often controversial.

Dysphoria, in the context of gender dysphoria, refers to the profound sense of discomfort or distress that arises from a discrepancy between a person's gender identity and their sex assigned at birth. It can manifest in a variety of emotional, psychological, and physical ways, including anxiety, depression, and a persistent dissatisfaction with one’s body or gender expression. Gender dysphoria is recognized as a legitimate medical condition, and its acknowledgment is crucial for the well-being and healthcare of transgender and non-binary individuals. Addressing dysphoria often involves steps towards affirming one’s gender identity, which can include social transition, hormone therapy, and gender-affirming surgeries. Understanding and support from family, friends, and society play a vital role in mitigating the impacts of dysphoria on an individual’s mental health and overall quality of life.

E-stimulation, also known as electrical play, is a BDSM activity that involves the use of electrical current to stimulate the nerves for sexual pleasure and/or pain. This practice can include the use of specialized devices like violet wands or TENS units, which are designed to safely administer electrical shocks to various parts of the body. E-stim is considered an advanced form of play due to the inherent risks and the need for a thorough understanding of both the equipment and the human body's response to electrical stimulation. Participants must consent and communicate their boundaries clearly. Safety protocols, including not using the equipment near water or on individuals with electronic medical devices, are paramount.

The Eagle is a well-known bar and social venue that caters predominantly to the leather subculture within the LGBTQIA+ community. Often found in major cities across the United States and globally, Eagle bars are recognized for their distinctive culture that celebrates various forms of masculinity and BDSM lifestyles. These venues serve as important social and cultural gathering spaces, providing a supportive environment where members of the leather community can express their identities and practices freely.

Earl Hall serves as a significant site within Columbia University's Morningside Heights campus in Manhattan, New York. Established as a center for religious and community activities, it has played a pivotal role in the history of LGBTQIA+ student life at the university. Notably, in 1967, it was the location of the founding of the Student Homophile League, which is one of the earliest recorded gay student organizations in the United States. This organization marked a crucial step in the formation of LGBTQIA+ student advocacy groups on college campuses, contributing to greater visibility and acceptance of queer communities in academic settings.

"Eat," "Eating," and "Ate" are phrases used to show admiration or praise for someone who succeeded or performed exceptionally well in something. These terms, which originated in the African-American and LGBTQ+ communities in the 2000s, have become popularized through social media platforms like TikTok. They convey enthusiasm and approval, often in the context of performances or fashion, and are used to celebrate achievement and flair with a spirited, supportive tone.

Ecstasy, commonly referred to in its drug form as MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), plays a significant role in some LGBTQIA+ subcultures, particularly within club and party scenes. It is known for its effects of increased empathy, euphoria, and heightened sensory perception, which can foster a sense of community and belonging among users. However, it's important to note the risks associated with its use, including dehydration, overheating, and potential long-term mental health issues. Within the LGBTQIA+ context, ecstasy's usage intersects with discussions around harm reduction, safe spaces for expression, and the historical significance of LGBTQIA+ nightlife and culture.

Edging, in a sexual context, refers to the practice of bringing oneself or a partner close to the point of orgasm but then reducing or stopping stimulation to delay climax. This technique can be used to increase the intensity of orgasm when it eventually occurs. Within the LGBTQIA+ community, as with others, edging is recognized as a method to explore sexual pleasure, control, and dynamics between partners. It is a consensual practice that can enhance the sexual experience through heightened anticipation and prolonged physical sensation. Edging can be a part of solo or partnered sexual activities and is applicable across all sexual orientations and identities, emphasizing communication, consent, and mutual enjoyment in sexual experiences.

Edith "Edie" Windsor was an American LGBTQIA+ rights activist whose landmark case, United States v. Windsor, led to the downfall of Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 2013. After her partner of 42 years, Thea Spyer, passed away, Windsor inherited Spyer's estate. However, because DOMA defined marriage as a union between one man and one woman, Windsor did not qualify for the federal estate tax exemption for surviving spouses. She sued the federal government, arguing that DOMA violated the principles of equal protection by treating legally married same-sex couples differently from legally married opposite-sex couples. The Supreme Court's decision in her favor was a pivotal moment in the fight for marriage equality in the United States, contributing significantly to the momentum that led to the legalization of same-sex marriage nationwide in 2015.

"Egg" is a metaphorical term used within the transgender community to describe a person who has not yet recognized or acknowledged their transgender identity. It represents a stage where an individual may exhibit signs or express feelings related to gender dysphoria or a gender identity that differs from their sex assigned at birth, but they have not yet come to fully understand or embrace their transgender identity. The term is often used retrospectively by transgender people to describe their own experiences prior to coming out or beginning their transition. The concept of an "egg" highlights the journey of self-discovery and the process of coming to terms with one's gender identity, emphasizing the idea that awareness and acceptance of one's transgender identity can be a gradual process.

"Eggplant" refers to the emoji used to symbolize a penis, primarily due to its shape and size. The term is often used in digital communication to imply sexual content or innuendo humorously or provocatively. The emoji has become a part of a broader language within online and texting cultures for discussing sexual matters in a coded or playful manner.

Ellen DeGeneres is a prominent television host, comedian, actress, and producer known for her groundbreaking role in the advancement of LGBTQIA+ visibility in media. Coming out as a lesbian in 1997 on her self-titled sitcom "Ellen," DeGeneres faced significant backlash but also received widespread support, marking a pivotal moment in the portrayal of LGBTQIA+ characters on television. Her courage to publicly come out paved the way for future generations of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the entertainment industry and beyond. DeGeneres continued to champion LGBTQIA+ rights and issues through her subsequent work, most notably on her daytime talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show." Her contributions have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, reflecting her impact on both the entertainment industry and the broader social acceptance of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Elton John is a world-renowned British musician known for his prolific music career and flamboyant style. He is celebrated not only for his artistic contributions but also for his advocacy on gay rights and the fight against HIV/AIDS. Coming out as bisexual in 1976 and later as gay, Elton John has been a pivotal figure in promoting visibility and acceptance for LGBTQIA+ individuals. His establishment of the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992 has played a significant role in combating HIV/AIDS globally, funding programs for HIV prevention, education, and support services.

An "Emo Lesbian" refers to a lesbian who identifies with or embodies the characteristics of the emo subculture, which is often characterized by its emotional intensity, expressive and sometimes melancholic fashion, and music preferences. This identity combines aspects of sexual orientation with specific cultural and aesthetic expressions, emphasizing deep emotional connections, introspection, and often an appreciation for alternative, punk, or indie music genres. Emo lesbians may express themselves through distinct fashion choices, such as dyed hair, piercings, and band merchandise, and through art, poetry, or other forms of creative expression. The term highlights the diversity within the lesbian community, acknowledging the varied ways individuals experience and express their lesbian identity alongside their cultural interests.

Emotional attraction is a form of attraction that is based on a connection with another person's personality, rather than their physical appearance or gender. It involves the desire to get to know someone on a deeper level, share experiences with them, and have a close, personal relationship. Emotional attraction can be experienced by anyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and it plays a significant role in the formation of deep friendships and romantic relationships. It is a key component of queer relationships, where connections often transcend traditional gender binaries and are based on the emotional bond between individuals. Emotional attraction is crucial in understanding the complexity of human relationships and the spectrum of human sexuality, emphasizing the importance of personal connections over physical or sexual attraction alone.

"En Femme" is a term used within the transgender and cross-dressing communities to describe the act or state of dressing and presenting oneself in a traditionally feminine manner. This expression can encompass not only clothing but also mannerisms, makeup, and other forms of gender expression that align with femininity. The term is often used by individuals who may not necessarily identify as female but wish to explore or express a feminine aspect of their identity, including but not limited to transgender women, cross-dressers, and gender-fluid individuals. "En Femme" highlights the fluidity of gender expression and the distinction between gender identity and gender presentation, providing a space for individuals to explore and affirm their gender in a way that feels authentic to them.

"En Homme" is a term originating from the French phrase meaning "as a man," used within the transgender, cross-dressing, and broader LGBTQIA+ communities to describe the act or state of dressing and presenting oneself in a traditionally masculine manner. This can include wearing men's clothing, adopting masculine mannerisms, and engaging in other forms of gender expression that are aligned with societal norms of masculinity. The term is particularly relevant for individuals exploring or expressing a masculine aspect of their identity, such as transgender men, drag kings, and gender-fluid individuals when they present in a masculine way. "En Homme" emphasizes the importance of self-expression and the exploration of gender identity beyond binary constraints, offering insight into the diverse ways individuals experience and express gender.

"Enby" is a term derived from the abbreviation NB, which stands for non-binary. It refers to individuals who do not identify exclusively as male or female, existing outside of the gender binary. Enbies may experience a gender identity that is a blend of both, neither, or something entirely different from traditional male and female roles. The term "enby" provides a more personalized and humanized alternative to the acronym NB, emphasizing the validity and identity of non-binary people. It's part of a broader movement towards recognizing and respecting the diversity of gender experiences and expressions beyond the binary framework, fostering inclusivity and understanding within and outside the LGBTQIA+ community.