Butch - meaning and definition
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Definition
A term, used mostly in lesbian and queer communities, for a person whose style and manner are masculine, often a masculine-presenting woman.
At a glance
- Butch describes a masculine style and manner, often in a masculine-presenting woman.
- It has a long history in lesbian culture, often alongside femme.
- It describes expression and community identity rather than gender identity.
- Once used as an insult, it has been widely reclaimed with pride.
- Stud is a related term with roots in Black lesbian communities.
In detail
Butch has a long history in lesbian culture, especially from the mid twentieth century, often alongside femme. It describes gender expression and community identity rather than a gender identity, although some butch people are non-binary or transmasculine.
The word was once used as an insult but has been widely reclaimed with pride. Stud is a related term with roots in Black lesbian communities. As with all identity words, it is best used for people who choose it themselves.
In a sentence
- She proudly calls herself butch and runs a local carpentry business.
- The exhibition celebrated butch and femme history in the city.
Where the word comes from
Butch was in use in lesbian bar culture in the United States by the mid twentieth century, often paired with femme. Its earlier origins are not certain.
Common questions
Is butch an offensive word?
It was once used as an insult, but many lesbian and queer people have reclaimed it with pride. It is best used for people who choose it for themselves, not as a label for others.
Is butch a gender identity?
Usually it describes gender expression and community identity. Many butch people are women, while some are non-binary or transmasculine. How it is used depends on the person.