Oral primarily refers to the sexual act involving the use of the mouth to stimulate the genitals of a partner. This term encompasses a wide range of sexual activities and is a common component of sexual expression and intimacy within various relationships and encounters across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. The practice is significant within the community not only as a form of sexual activity but also as an aspect of sexual health discussions, emphasizing the importance of consent, communication, and safety in sexual engagements.

Oral sex refers to the act of using the mouth, lips, or tongue to stimulate a partner’s genitals. Oral sex is a common sexual practice across different genders and sexual orientations. It is an integral part of sexual relationships, contributing to both physical pleasure and emotional intimacy. Discussions around oral sex within the community often emphasize the importance of safe sex practices, consent, and open communication between partners to ensure mutual comfort and satisfaction.

The orange hanky, when worn in the hanky code system, a form of covert communication among the LGBTQIA+ community, especially within gay and BDSM subcultures, signifies a specific sexual interest. Wearing an orange hanky indicates an interest in anything goes, signaling the wearer's openness to a wide variety of sexual activities without a specific focus. The color and placement of the hanky (left or right pocket) can further specify the individual's role as dominant or submissive and their specific preferences.

An orgasm refers to the peak of sexual pleasure, a physiological and emotional response to sexual stimulation, which can involve involuntary muscle contractions, a heightened sense of pleasure, and often a release of tension. It is significant within the community not only as a facet of sexual health and behavior but also in discussions about sexual rights, pleasure equality, and the diversity of sexual experiences across different identities, including those of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. Orgasms are discussed openly within the community to promote a healthy, inclusive, and affirming understanding of sexual expression and satisfaction.

Orientation refers to an individual's inherent or enduring emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to other people. Sexual orientation encompasses identities such as gay, lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual, among others. It is a core aspect of personal identity and is distinct from gender identity. Understanding and expressing one’s sexual orientation is a fundamental aspect of one's overall identity and can significantly influence personal and social dynamics. The term is crucial in discussions about LGBTQIA+ rights and experiences, reflecting the diversity within the community regarding whom individuals are attracted to.

An otter refers to a younger man who is typically slimmer and may be less hairy than a bear but more than a twink. Otters are usually part of the broader bear community but stand out due to their distinct physical characteristics and are often involved in the same social activities and groups as bears. This term highlights the diversity and richness of identity within the gay and queer communities, focusing on a unique niche that celebrates a specific body type and aesthetic in a playful and inclusive manner.

"Out" refers to the state of being openly identified as not heterosexual or cisgender. It involves a personal decision to disclose one's sexual orientation, gender identity, or both, to others. The process of coming out can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, including social, cultural, and familial environments. Being out is often seen as a form of authenticity and can be a critical step in the acceptance and validation of one's identity within society and personal circles.

Out is a prominent American LGBTQIA+ fashion, entertainment, and lifestyle magazine that covers a wide range of topics relevant to the queer community. First published in 1992, Out focuses on celebrity interviews, news, politics, and health, all from an LGBTQIA+ perspective. It serves as a significant platform for discussing the cultural and social issues impacting the community, offering both visibility and a voice to diverse experiences within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. The magazine is known for its annual "Out100" list, which honors the year's most influential LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Out100 is an annual list and event created by Out magazine that celebrates the 100 most influential LGBTQIA+ individuals of the year. Launched in 1994, the Out100 serves as a recognition platform highlighting the contributions and achievements of LGBTQIA+ people across various sectors, including entertainment, sports, activism, business, and more. It aims to showcase the diversity and impact of the LGBTQIA+ community and often includes both well-known public figures and those working behind the scenes to advance LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility.

Outing is the act of disclosing an individual's LGBTQIA+ identity to others without their consent. It can be a form of violation of privacy and can have serious repercussions on someone's personal and professional life. Outing someone can lead to stigma, discrimination, or even danger to the individual's well-being. The term gained prominence in the late 20th century as discussions around privacy and the ethics of forced public disclosures became more prevalent within the community. The practice is widely regarded as harmful and unethical within LGBTQIA+ circles due to the potential negative impact on individuals who may not be publicly out about their sexual orientation or gender identity.

OutRight Action International, formerly known as the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, is a leading international organization dedicated to advocating for the human rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals globally. Established in 1990, the organization works through research, advocacy, partnership, and support to address the rights of LGBTQIA+ people who face human rights violations and abuses. OutRight Action International focuses on policy change, increasing public awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues, and empowering local communities to fight for legal and societal acceptance. Its efforts are critical in countries where LGBTQIA+ individuals face severe discrimination, violence, and legal challenges.

An "outsider" refers to someone who feels or is perceived as not fitting into the main social groups or subcultures within the broader LGBTQIA+ community. This can be due to various factors such as differing interests, personality, or even the degree of public visibility and activism. Outsiders may also identify as such due to feeling marginalized or less represented within the community, possibly due to unconventional gender identities, sexual orientations, or non-adherence to the more recognized or celebrated identities within LGBTQIA+ culture.

"Ovah" is a term from ballroom culture, primarily used within the African American and Latinx LGBTQIA+ communities. It denotes something that is overwhelmingly impressive or incredibly dramatic. In ballroom competitions, "ovah" describes performances or actions that are exceptional in their flair and execution, often surpassing expectations and eliciting a strong reaction from the audience and judges. This term embodies the extravagance, empowerment, and creativity that are hallmark elements of ballroom culture.

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medical treatment protocol used to prevent HIV infection after potential exposure to the virus. This regimen typically involves taking antiretroviral medications for 28 days. PEP is recommended for immediate use, ideally within 72 hours after exposure, to reduce the likelihood of HIV seroconversion. It is used in various scenarios, including sexual exposure, needle-stick injuries, or other instances where bodily fluids might have been exchanged. This treatment is an essential part of health strategies within communities at higher risk for HIV exposure, including LGBTQIA+ individuals.

PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) is an organization founded in 1973 that promotes the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals, their families, and friends through support, education, and advocacy. PFLAG provides opportunities for dialogue about sexual orientation and gender identity and acts to create a society that is healthy and respectful of human diversity. By providing support to families and allies of LGBTQ+ individuals, PFLAG plays a crucial role in increasing understanding and acceptance.

PGP stands for "Preferred Gender Pronouns." This term is used to refer to the pronouns that a person identifies with and prefers to be addressed by. Common PGPs include he/him, she/her, and they/them, among others. The use of PGPs is a way to respect and affirm a person's gender identity, emphasizing the importance of using correct pronouns in communication to create a more inclusive environment.

POC stands for "People of Color." This term refers to individuals who are part of ethnic minority groups and also identify as members of the LGBTQIA+ community. The intersectionality of race and LGBTQIA+ identity brings unique cultural, social, and political challenges, including discrimination and underrepresentation. The term emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the diverse identities and experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community, advocating for inclusivity and equality.

PULSE was a popular gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, known for being a vibrant gathering place for the local LGBTQIA+ community. It tragically entered the international spotlight on June 12, 2016, when it became the site of one of the deadliest mass shootings in modern American history. The attack during the club’s Latin Night resulted in 49 deaths and numerous injuries, profoundly impacting the global LGBTQIA+ community and sparking discussions on hate crimes, gun control, and solidarity.

Packing is a practice predominantly among transgender men and gender-nonconforming individuals where they create a bulge suggestive of male genitalia. This is achieved by using materials like socks, specialized prosthetics (commonly called packers), or other items placed in the underwear. Packing can serve both personal comfort and psychological affirmation of one's gender identity, enhancing the outward presentation of their gender, especially in public or social settings. It's an aspect of gender expression that helps align one’s physical appearance with their gender identity.

Palm Springs, California, is a significant city in the LGBTQIA+ community, known for its high percentage of LGBTQIA+ residents and an extensive array of LGBTQIA+-friendly businesses, including bars, hotels, and shops. The city hosts numerous LGBTQIA+ events throughout the year, such as the Greater Palm Springs Pride, which attracts visitors from around the globe. It's celebrated as a retirement destination for LGBTQIA+ elders and has a rich history of LGBTQIA+ activism and community development. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and vibrant culture make it a pivotal location for LGBTQIA+ history and ongoing rights movements.

Panromantic refers to individuals who experience romantic attraction to people of any gender identity. For panromantic individuals, gender and sex are generally not significant factors in their romantic attraction. This orientation emphasizes the capacity for romantic feelings that transcend gender boundaries, highlighting the diverse and inclusive nature of romantic experiences in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Pansexual is a sexual orientation characterized by the potential for aesthetic attraction, romantic love, or sexual desire towards people of all gender identities and sexes. Pansexual individuals may refer to themselves as gender-blind, asserting that gender and sex are not determining factors in their romantic or sexual attraction to others. This orientation is distinct from bisexuality and includes attraction beyond male or female genders, such as non-binary or transgender individuals.

The Pansexual Flag is a symbol used to represent individuals who identify as pansexual. It consists of three horizontal stripes: magenta at the top, representing attraction to females; yellow in the middle, representing attraction to non-binary and gender-nonconforming individuals; and cyan at the bottom, representing attraction to males. This flag highlights the pansexual community's inclusion and recognition of attractions that transcend gender binary distinctions.

The term "Pansy" historically references a derogatory term for effeminate gay men but has been reclaimed by some as a symbol of pride and defiance against stereotypes of masculinity. The reclamation is similar to other LGBTQ+ community efforts to transform negative slurs into badges of pride, celebrating diversity in gender expression and challenging traditional gender norms.

"Paris is Burning" is a landmark documentary directed by Jennie Livingston that was released in 1990. The film provides an intimate portrayal of the ballroom culture of New York City and the African American, Latino, gay, and transgender communities involved in it during the mid-to-late 1980s. The documentary highlights issues such as race, class, gender, and sexuality, which intersect in the lives of the participants, who compete for trophies and recognition in this underground culture, and it extensively explores the concepts of "realness," "house families," and "voguing."