SO (Significant Other)

SO is short for significant other, a gender-neutral way to refer to a romantic or committed life partner without naming the gender of either person. Because it sidesteps words like boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife, the term is widely used in LGBTQ+ communities as an inclusive option, and it is especially useful for non-binary and gender-nonconforming people and their partners who prefer language that does not impose a binary. It is also handy in professional or casual settings where someone wants to mention a partner without disclosing more than they choose to. The phrase predates its LGBTQ+ use but has become a comfortable, everyday shorthand across the community.