A Butchy Femme is an individual who identifies within the lesbian or queer community and embodies a unique blend of traditionally masculine and feminine qualities. This term specifically refers to those who may present or express themselves in ways that are considered "butch" in terms of certain masculine behaviors or appearances, while simultaneously embracing "femme" aspects, attitudes, or styles. The butchy femme identity challenges rigid definitions of gender expression within both the LGBTQIA+ community and broader society by blending attributes traditionally associated with both ends of the gender presentation spectrum. This identity highlights the fluidity and diversity of gender expression, emphasizing that individual identity can encompass a multifaceted range of characteristics that defy simple categorization.

A "buttgasm" refers to an intense orgasm achieved through anal stimulation. This term is often used within LGBTQIA+ and broader sexual contexts to describe the physical response of profound pleasure resulting from anal play or penetration. The experience can be associated with various activities involving anal stimulation, such as the use of fingers, sex toys, or penile penetration. In LGBTQIA+ discourse, the discussion of buttgasms can involve aspects of sexual health, consent, and pleasure-focused sexual expression.

Byke is a portmanteau blending the words "bisexual" and "dyke," used within the LGBTQIA+ community to describe someone who identifies as both bisexual and a dyke. The term dyke traditionally refers to a lesbian with a more masculine, androgynous, or butch gender expression, but in the context of "byke," it's used more broadly to signify a queer woman or non-binary individual who feels a connection to both identities. By embracing the term byke, individuals can acknowledge and celebrate their complex relationship with both their sexual orientation and gender expression. This identity underscores the fluidity of both sexual orientation and gender, challenging more rigid definitions and affirming the diversity of experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community.

CBT, within the BDSM community, stands for Cock and Ball Torture. It is a sexual activity involving the application of pain or constriction to the penis and testicles. This may include practices like ball-stretching, which aims to elongate the scrotal sac using weights and other devices, and ball-bashing, which involves striking the testicles with small paddles or similar blunt instruments. Additionally, electrical stimulation is often used as a method of cock torture. CBT is a part of consensual BDSM activities, emphasizing the importance of safety, consent, and mutual agreement on the practices involved.

Located in New Orleans, Cafe Lafitte in Exile is recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating gay bars in the United States. Established in 1933, the bar has served as a significant cultural and social hub for the LGBTQ+ community. It has been a sanctuary for expression and solidarity through decades of challenges, including the fight for civil rights and the AIDS crisis. The bar's historical significance extends to its association with notable figures such as Tennessee Williams and Truman Capote, who were among its patrons. Cafe Lafitte in Exile not only represents a pivotal venue in LGBTQ+ history but also remains a vibrant center of community and activism.

"Cake" is often used to refer to someone's buttocks, similar to the mainstream use but embraced in queer contexts with a playful or celebratory tone. The term can highlight appreciation for a person’s body in a manner that's affirming and body positive. It’s commonly used in social and dating interactions within the community to compliment someone's physique in a cheeky and affectionate way.

"Call Me by Your Name" is a film and novel that portrays a romantic relationship between a seventeen-year-old Italian-American boy and a visiting American scholar in 1980s Italy. It explores themes of sexual awakening, emotional depth, and the poignant complexities of love and acceptance. The story is celebrated for its delicate handling of first love and the painful beauty of its consequent heartbreak, resonating deeply within the LGBTQIA+ community for its authentic depiction of a young man's exploration of his sexuality in a time of social constraints.

Camp refers to an aesthetic style and sensibility that embraces extravagant, exaggerated, and often humorous forms of expression. It involves a deliberate and sophisticated use of irony, parody, and theatricality, challenging traditional notions of taste and beauty. Camp is closely associated with queer culture and has been a way for LGBTQIA+ individuals to critique social norms, subvert gender roles, and celebrate non-conformity through flamboyant fashion, performance, and art. It's a form of self-expression that finds beauty in the artificial, the exaggerated, and the kitsch, often with a self-aware wink to the audience. Camp has deep roots in drag culture and has significantly influenced fashion, cinema, and pop culture, becoming a critical lens through which the queer experience can be explored and communicated.

Candle play involves the use of candles to drip hot wax on the body, creating a combination of heat and slight pain that can heighten sensory experiences. This practice is often integrated into BDSM activities, serving as a form of temperature play within the broader spectrum of sadomasochistic dynamics. It is a nuanced form of stimulation that can range from mildly warm to intensely hot, depending on the type of candle used and the distance from which the wax is dripped. The appeal of candle play lies in its ability to produce a variety of sensations, from the anticipation of the wax's touch to the actual impact and the residual warmth on the skin. This form of play requires clear communication, consent, and an understanding of safety practices to prevent burns or unwanted harm, emphasizing the importance of trust and negotiation in BDSM relationships.

Car play refers to a form of sexual activity that occurs within a car. This term is commonly used to describe scenarios where individuals engage in intimate or sexual acts while inside a vehicle, often parked in a secluded or private area. The concept of car play encompasses a range of activities from kissing and touching to more explicit actions. It is sometimes favored for its convenience and the privacy it offers, especially in areas where LGBTQ+ individuals may not feel safe expressing affection or intimacy in public spaces.

Carrington House is a prominent landmark in Cherry Grove, Fire Island, known for its historical significance within the LGBTQIA+ and arts communities. During the mid-20th century, this location became a cultural retreat for influential figures in the arts and entertainment industries. Its owner, Frank Carrington, actively supported the burgeoning arts scene by renting the property to friends and notable individuals such as Truman Capote, who, in 1957, wrote the initial drafts of what would become Breakfast at Tiffany's there. Other distinguished guests included Lincoln Kerstein, co-founder of the New York City Ballet, fashion designer Bill Blass, actors Henry Fonda and Katharine Hepburn, and actress Gertrude Lawrence. Carrington House thus stands as a beacon of creativity and a significant site of LGBTQIA+ heritage, reflecting the community's deep ties to artistic expression and social gathering.

In LGBTQIA+ vernacular, particularly within drag and ballroom cultures, "carrying" refers to behaving or performing in an exaggerated or dramatic manner. It often involves a heightened presentation, whether in terms of fashion, makeup, speech, or gestures, used for effect in performances, social interactions, or as part of drag acts. The term underscores a key aspect of queer performance art, where exaggeration and theatricality serve as tools for expression, entertainment, and sometimes as a form of social commentary or resistance against normative societal expectations.

Castro Camera was more than just a camera shop; it became a pivotal center for LGBTQIA+ activism and community building in San Francisco. Owned by Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States, the store transcended its commercial purpose to serve as a safe space and headquarters for Milk's political campaigns. Located in the Castro District, known for its prominent LGBTQIA+ community, the shop was instrumental in organizing efforts for gay rights and facilitating significant cultural and political events during the 1970s. It symbolizes the intertwining of LGBTQIA+ rights with local business and political activism, highlighting the community's fight for equality and representation.

The Castro is a neighborhood in San Francisco, California, known as one of the first and most iconic gay neighborhoods in the United States. It emerged as a center of LGBTQIA+ culture and activism during the 1970s and remains a vibrant hub for the community to this day. The area is celebrated for its historic significance in the fight for gay rights and is a popular destination for both residents and visitors seeking a welcoming environment that champions LGBTQIA+ history, culture, and rights. The Castro's landmarks include the Castro Theatre, Harvey Milk Plaza, and numerous rainbow flag decorations along its streets.

The Cat O’ Nine Tails is a type of whip with nine strands, historically used for corporal punishment. Within the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly among those involved in BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Sadomasochism) practices, it signifies a tool for consensual S&M activities. This whip is favored for its intense sensation, providing a sting that appeals to enthusiasts of pain and pleasure dynamics. The use of such implements is deeply rooted in the communication of boundaries, consent, and mutual respect, which are fundamental principles in the BDSM community. Its application is not just about the physical aspect but also involves a deep understanding and trust between the participants, often leading to profound emotional connections.

"Catcher" is often used within the context of male same-sex relationships to describe a person who typically assumes a receptive or passive role (bottom)during sexual activity, especially in anal sex. This term complements the term "Pitcher," which refers to the partner who assumes the penetrative or active role (top). It's important to note that these roles are not fixed and can vary based on personal preference, relationship dynamics, and individual situations. The use of terms like "Catcher" and "Pitcher" can help individuals communicate their sexual preferences and desires more clearly within their relationships. However, it's also crucial to approach these terms with sensitivity, as they can reinforce stereotypes or oversimplifications of complex sexual dynamics.

Catfishing refers to the act of creating a false identity or persona online, often in social networks or dating platforms, specifically targeting LGBTQIA+ individuals. This deceptive practice can be particularly harmful within the community, as it preys on individuals seeking connection and relationships in spaces they consider safe. Catfishing is not limited to any one goal; motives can range from financial exploitation and phishing for personal information to emotional manipulation and harassment. It underscores the importance of safety and vigilance in online interactions within the LGBTQIA+ community. This phenomenon also raises discussions about trust, identity, and the complexities of online dating and socialization in the digital age, reflecting broader issues of privacy, authenticity, and security.

A celesbian is a portmanteau of "celebrity" and "lesbian," used to refer to a famous woman who openly identifies as a lesbian or is widely recognized within the LGBTQIA+ community. This term highlights the visibility and influence of lesbian celebrities in both the LGBTQIA+ community and the broader public discourse, celebrating their contributions to increasing representation and awareness of lesbian issues and identities in media, entertainment, and activism. Celesbians often use their platform to advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to the normalization and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations.

The Center for Black Equity is an organization dedicated to supporting Black LGBTQ+ individuals globally. Its mission encompasses advocacy, empowerment, and the promotion of social equality for Black LGBTQ+ people through various programs and partnerships. The Center for Black Equity is renowned for its efforts in organizing Black Pride events worldwide, providing leadership, health, and wellness programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life and increasing the visibility and resilience of the Black LGBTQ+ community.

The Center, often referred to as The LGBT Community Center, is a vital resource hub located in New York City that serves the LGBTQIA+ community. It provides a welcoming space for community members to benefit from health and wellness programs, cultural events, counseling, and various support groups. The Center plays a crucial role in advocating for LGBT rights and offers educational resources that promote the wellbeing and development of the LGBTQIA+ community across all age groups.

A Chapstick Lesbian is a term used to describe a lesbian who doesn't fully identify with being either femme (traditionally feminine) or butch (traditionally masculine) but falls somewhere in between, often leaning towards a more casual, low-maintenance appearance. The term "Chapstick" is used metaphorically to contrast the more high-maintenance connotations of lipstick, implying a more practical and understated approach to beauty and style. Chapstick lesbians might present themselves in ways that are considered traditionally feminine but prefer comfort and simplicity over high fashion or elaborate grooming rituals. This identity highlights the diversity of expression within the lesbian community and challenges binary perceptions of gender presentation.

A Chaser specifically refers to an individual who is particularly attracted to people because of their body type or identity, most commonly used within two contexts: "tranny chaser" and "chubby chaser." A "tranny chaser" is a term considered derogatory and offensive, denoting someone primarily attracted to transgender individuals often fetishizing their identity. Similarly, a "chubby chaser" is someone who is specifically attracted to overweight individuals. These terms have been criticized for objectifying individuals and reducing them to mere aspects of their identity or physical appearance. It's important to approach these terms with sensitivity and awareness of their implications within various communities, recognizing the significance of respecting all individuals beyond superficial or fetishistic attractions.

Chastity often refers to the practice of abstaining from sexual intercourse or maintaining a period of sexual inactivity, similar to its traditional definition. However, in BDSM and kink communities, which are inclusive parts of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, chastity can take on a more specific meaning related to power dynamics and consensual control. This includes the use of chastity devices to physically prevent sexual activity or orgasm, often as a part of a consensual relationship dynamic where one partner (the "keyholder") controls the sexual release of the other. This practice is not exclusive to any sexual orientation or identity but is embraced by various members of the LGBTQIA+ community as part of their sexual expression or relationship structure.

A Chastity Cage is a device used primarily in the BDSM community to prevent the wearer (typically male) from achieving an erection, thereby denying orgasm or self-pleasure. This act of control allows a dominant partner (Dom) to exert power over the submissive (sub), playing a significant role in their dynamic. The device is usually locked, and the key is held by the dominant partner, symbolizing their control. Chastity cages are used within consensual BDSM relationships as a form of sexual denial and control, enhancing the power exchange between partners.

Chemsex refers to the use of drugs like methamphetamine, GHB/GBL, and mephedrone in a sexual context, primarily among men who have sex with men (MSM), to enhance sexual experience, prolong sexual activity, and reduce inhibitions. This practice is associated with certain risks, including increased likelihood of engaging in unprotected sex, potential for drug dependency, and other health complications. Chemsex is a subject of concern within the LGBTQIA+ community due to its implications for mental and physical health, as well as its impact on sexual health practices. Public health interventions and community support initiatives often address chemsex to promote safer sex practices and provide resources for those seeking help with substance use.