Faggot: meaning, definitions and examples

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faggot

 

[ ˈfægət ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

offensive term

The term 'faggot' is used as a derogatory slur against gay men, reflecting societal biases and discrimination. Historically, it has been employed to demean and dehumanize those within the LGBTQ+ community. The term is deeply offensive and carries a heavy stigma, often used in hate speech, bullying, and as a means to reinforce negative stereotypes. In recent times, there have been efforts to reclaim the word within certain groups, but its use in general conversation should be approached with caution due to its potentially harmful implications.

Synonyms

derogatory term, gay slur, homophobe

Examples of usage

  • The use of that word is unacceptable.
  • He was targeted with faggot slurs in school.
  • The community is working to eliminate hate speech, including offensive terms like faggot.

Translations

Translations of the word "faggot" in other languages:

🇵🇹 faggot

🇮🇳 फैगगट

🇩🇪 Schwuchtel

🇮🇩 faggot

🇺🇦 педик

🇵🇱 pedał

🇯🇵 ファゴット

🇫🇷 pd

🇪🇸 maricón

🇹🇷 eşcinsel

🇰🇷 패거리

🇸🇦 منبوذ

🇨🇿 peda

🇸🇰 pedál

🇨🇳 同性恋者

🇸🇮 pedal

🇮🇸 peddur

🇰🇿 гей

🇬🇪 ფაგოტი

🇦🇿 faggot

🇲🇽 maricón

Etymology

The word 'faggot' originated in the late Middle Ages as a term for a bundle of sticks or twigs, which were often used as kindling for fires. The transition in meaning to a derogatory term for homosexuals is less clear, but it is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century. Some etymologists suggest that the term was used in the context of associating homosexuals with weakness, as firewood was considered something 'lesser' or easily discarded. Over time, it became a slur used predominantly in English-speaking countries. The term has been the subject of significant critique due to its harmful connotations, particularly in the context of promoting homophobia and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. With the rise of LGBTQ+ rights movements, there has been a growing awareness of the term's impact and a push against its use in society.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,978, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.