Demisexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by experiencing sexual attraction only after forming a strong emotional connection with someone. It falls within the asexual (ace) spectrum, differing from other orientations in that demisexual individuals typically do not feel sexual attraction based on immediate physical or aesthetic appreciation. This orientation emphasizes the significance of emotional bonds as a precursor to sexual attraction, highlighting the diverse and nuanced nature of human sexuality. Demisexuality challenges conventional perceptions of attraction, affirming that for some, emotional intimacy is a critical component before any sexual desire emerges.

"Designing Women" is a television sitcom that aired from 1986 to 1993, known for its strong, outspoken female characters and progressive social themes, including LGBTQIA+ issues. The show was ahead of its time in addressing topics such as homosexuality, AIDS, and social justice, often with humor and poignancy. It gained a significant following in the LGBTQIA+ community for its advocacy and representation, providing visibility and support during a critical time of AIDS awareness and LGBTQ rights movements.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is a publication by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) that provides a comprehensive classification of mental disorders. The DSM has played a significant role in the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly concerning how various identities and behaviors have been pathologized historically. Notably, the DSM listed homosexuality as a mental illness until 1973, when it was removed due to activism and evolving scientific understanding. Changes in the DSM's treatment of gender dysphoria and the depathologization of transgender identities in more recent editions reflect ongoing changes in the medical and psychological professions' understanding of LGBTQIA+ issues. These changes have profound implications for legal rights, access to healthcare, and the broader social recognition of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

A "Diesel Dyke" is a term used within the LGBTQIA+ community, often to describe a lesbian with a strong, rugged demeanor, typically associated with masculinity. This slang can be used affirmatively, neutrally, or pejoratively, depending on context and intent. It challenges traditional gender norms by embracing and celebrating masculine traits in women. While it aims to reclaim and empower, it's important to use the term with understanding and respect for how individuals identify. The term also reflects the diversity within the lesbian community, acknowledging that expressions of gender and sexuality are varied and complex.

A "Dildo" is a sex toy designed to replicate the shape of a penis, used for sexual pleasure. Dildos are utilized across a wide spectrum of sexual activities and can play a significant role in the sexual expression and exploration of individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. They are particularly emblematic of the community's embrace of diverse sexual practices and preferences, highlighting the importance of consent, communication, and safety in sexual exploration. Dildos can also be instrumental in affirming one's gender identity and sexual orientation, serving as tools for pleasure and exploration in both solo and partnered contexts.

DINK (Dual Income, No Kids) refers to a household or relationship where two working adults are partnered or married and have chosen not to have children. This term is often used within the LGBTQIA+ community to describe couples who prioritize careers, personal freedom, and disposable income over starting a family. The concept can highlight different family planning choices and financial stability, reflecting diverse lifestyle preferences within the community.

"Dirty" in the context of LGBTQIA+ kink refers to sexual activities or fantasies that involve actions traditionally considered taboo or unconventional. This term often embraces a range of practices that might include role-playing scenarios, fetish activities, or other forms of sexual expression that are outside the mainstream or normative behaviors. In the kink community, being 'dirty' can be an affirmative way to describe engaging in these less conventional sexual practices with consent and enthusiasm.

Disability encompasses the experiences of individuals who identify as having a physical, mental, sensory, intellectual, or cognitive condition that impacts their daily activities and participation in society. Within this community, the discussion around disability is nuanced, focusing on intersectionality and the unique challenges and discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals with disabilities. It underscores the importance of inclusive practices, accessibility, and advocacy that recognize the diversity of experiences at the intersection of disability and LGBTQIA+ identities. This perspective advocates for a broader understanding of accessibility, rights, and acceptance, emphasizing that all individuals, regardless of their abilities or identities, deserve equitable opportunities and recognition in every aspect of life.

"Discreet" refers to individuals who prefer to keep their sexual orientation, gender identity, or participation in LGBTQIA+ communities private. This term is often used in environments where open expression of one's LGBTQIA+ identity may lead to discrimination, danger, or discomfort. Being discreet can be a protective measure or a personal choice reflecting an individual's comfort level with sharing aspects of their identity in various spaces, including family, work, and public environments. It highlights the ongoing challenges and safety concerns faced by many in the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as the diverse ways individuals navigate their identities in a world that may not always be accepting or safe.

Discrimination refers to the unfair or prejudicial treatment of individuals based on their real or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. This can manifest in various aspects of life, including employment, healthcare, housing, and access to services, often resulting in systemic inequalities and personal hardships. Discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals can stem from societal stigma, lack of legal protections, and cultural norms that privilege heterosexuality and traditional gender roles. Addressing this discrimination requires legal reform, societal change, and increased visibility and acceptance of LGBTQIA+ identities, aiming to ensure equality and protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.

A Disney Gay refers to a member of the LGBTQIA+ community with a particularly strong affinity for Disney culture, including its movies, characters, theme parks, and merchandise. This term highlights the intersection of queer identity with fandom culture, where individuals find joy, comfort, and sometimes a sense of belonging or escape in the fantasy and storytelling of Disney. Disney Gays often celebrate and engage with Disney culture through social media, fan conventions, and visits to Disney parks, sometimes incorporating elements into their personal style or participating in Disney-themed events and communities. The term reflects the broader phenomenon of LGBTQIA+ individuals finding resonance and representation in certain aspects of popular culture, and it underscores the importance of inclusivity and diversity within such fandoms.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) refers to policies, practices, and initiatives aimed at recognizing, respecting, and valuing differences among individuals and groups, particularly in workplaces, educational settings, and other institutions. Diversity encompasses the range of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability, and religious beliefs. Equity involves ensuring fair treatment, equality of opportunity, and advancement while striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. Inclusion is the practice of creating environments in which any individual or group can be and feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued to fully participate. In the context of the LGBTQIA+ community, DEI initiatives seek to ensure that individuals of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions are acknowledged, supported, and included, thereby fostering a more inclusive society.

DIY ("Do It Yourself") refers to the practice among some transgender and transsexual individuals of self-administering hormone replacement therapy (HRT) without medical supervision. This approach often arises from barriers to accessing traditional healthcare channels, which may include financial constraints, discrimination, or lack of available services. While DIY HRT provides a vital means for some to begin or continue their gender transition, it also carries significant risks due to the lack of medical oversight, potential for incorrect dosing, and the possibility of adverse health effects.

"Dom" or "Dominant" refers to a person who takes on a more controlling or leading role in a consensual power dynamic, particularly within relationships or sexual encounters. This role is characterized by asserting control over a submissive partner in ways that are agreed upon and enjoyed by all parties involved. In the LGBTQIA+ context, dominants can be found across various relationship types and sexual orientations, emphasizing the importance of consent, communication, negotiation, and respect for boundaries. The term transcends traditional gender roles, allowing individuals of any gender identity to adopt dominant roles that best fit their personal preferences and relationship dynamics.

The Do No Harm Act is proposed legislation that seeks to amend the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) to ensure that religious freedom is used as a safeguard for rights, not as a weapon to discriminate. It aims to prevent the RFRA from being invoked to deny civil rights, including access to healthcare, social services, and protection against discrimination for LGBTQIA+ individuals. This act is crucial in preventing the use of religious beliefs to block LGBTQIA+ rights under the guise of religious freedom, particularly in sectors like healthcare, employment, and public accommodations.

"Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) was a policy implemented by the United States military from December 1993 until September 2011. Under DADT, military personnel were not to be asked about their sexual orientation nor were they to disclose or discuss their sexual orientation or relationships. This policy was intended as a compromise to allow gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals to serve in the military, provided they kept their sexual orientation a secret. Despite its intentions, DADT led to the discharge of thousands of service members and was criticized for forcing LGBTQIA+ individuals into secrecy, thus perpetuating discrimination and stigma. The repeal of DADT in 2011 marked a significant victory for LGBTQIA+ rights and advocacy, allowing service members to openly serve regardless of their sexual orientation.

The term "Don't Say Gay" refers to legislation and policies that prohibit or limit the discussion of homosexuality and transgender issues within educational settings, often under the guise of protecting children. These laws have been criticized for marginalizing LGBTQIA+ identities, contributing to an environment of ignorance, stigma, and discrimination. They prevent teachers and students from discussing or learning about sexual orientation and gender identity in a meaningful and supportive way, which is crucial for the mental health and well-being of LGBTQIA+ youth. Such legislation not only erases LGBTQIA+ visibility but also impedes efforts towards creating inclusive and safe spaces for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

"Dopplebanger" is a playful term used to describe someone who is attracted to or sexually interested in individuals who closely resemble themselves in appearance or style. The word is a portmanteau of "doppelgänger," meaning a double or look-alike of a person, and "banger," slang for someone one finds sexually attractive. This concept reflects the diverse spectrum of attraction and desire within the community, highlighting how personal identity and self-perception can influence one's attraction to others. It underscores the community's openness to exploring and embracing a wide range of dynamics in attraction and relationships.

"Down-Low" or "DL" refers to individuals, particularly men, who identify as heterosexual in public and mainstream contexts but engage in sexual relationships with other men in private. This term is rooted in African American communities and has gained broader usage across various cultures and ethnicities. The concept underscores the complexities of navigating sexual orientation and identity within societal, cultural, and sometimes religious constraints that stigmatize or penalize non-heteronormative behaviors. The DL phenomenon highlights issues of privacy, masculinity, identity, and the pressures to conform to societal expectations, often at the cost of personal and mental wellbeing.

The term "Drab: Dressed As Boy" or "Dress Resembling A Boy" is specifically used within the transgender and cross-dressing communities to describe the state or experience of a male-to-female (MTF) transgender person or crossdresser presenting themselves in male attire. This term captures the nuances of gender expression, particularly for those who may not always present in alignment with their gender identity. It emphasizes the contrast between their everyday male presentation and their female identity or expression, which is often referred to as being "in drag" when they are presenting femininely.

Drag, an acronym for "Dressed Resembling A Girl," refers to the art of dressing in exaggerated gender attire, often opposite to the performer's gender identity, as a form of entertainment, expression, or artistry. This includes drag queens, who typically present in feminine attire and makeup, and drag kings, who present in masculine attire. Drag performers adopt flamboyant or theatrical personas and may perform in various venues, from bars and clubs to stages and television. Celebrating gender fluidity, drag challenges traditional gender norms and holds a significant place in LGBTQIA+ culture and activism. It represents a powerful form of expression and visibility for queer identities, highlighting the performative nature of gender and the spectrum of gender expressions.

A drag daughter is an individual in the drag community who is mentored by a more experienced drag performer, known as a drag mother. The drag mother provides guidance, shares knowledge, and helps in the development of the drag daughter's persona and performance skills. This mentorship can include advice on makeup, costume creation, performance techniques, and navigating the social and professional aspects of the drag scene. The relationship is akin to an apprenticeship in the arts, where skills and cultural knowledge are passed down, often leading to the formation of 'drag families', which offer support, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging within the drag community.

The Drag Feather Pride Flag is a symbol representing the drag community within the broader LGBTQIA+ spectrum. This flag celebrates drag culture, which includes drag queens, drag kings, and anyone else who performs gender in an exaggerated, theatrical, or non-traditional manner for entertainment, expression, or art. The flag features feathers, which are often associated with the flamboyancy, extravagance, and theatricality of drag performances. The colors and design elements of the flag highlight the diversity, creativity, and vibrant spirit of the drag community, emphasizing its role in challenging traditional gender norms and promoting freedom of expression. This flag serves as a visible symbol of pride, solidarity, and the inclusive nature of the LGBTQIA+ community, honoring the contributions of drag artists to queer culture and activism.

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.