Heart Lexicon

Tucking - meaning and definition

Alsotuckgafftucking tapetucked

Definition

Arranging the genitals so they are less visible under clothing, often with snug underwear or a garment called a gaff. It is used by some trans women, non-binary people and drag performers.

At a glance

  • Tucking makes the genitals less visible under clothing.
  • It often uses snug underwear or a garment called a gaff.
  • It is used by some trans women, non-binary people and drag performers.
  • It can reduce dysphoria and help clothes fit comfortably.
  • Safety advice: avoid tape on skin, take breaks and stop if there is pain or numbness.

In detail

Tucking can reduce dysphoria and make clothing fit more comfortably, and it is also a long-standing technique in drag. Purpose-made underwear or gaffs are commonly used.

General safety advice includes avoiding tape directly on the skin, taking breaks, keeping the area clean and dry, and stopping if there is pain, numbness or skin irritation. Anyone with ongoing discomfort should seek advice from a clinician.

In a sentence

  • She buys gaffs from a trans-run shop because they are more comfortable for tucking.
  • The drag workshop included a short talk on tucking safely.

Common questions

Is tucking safe?

General advice includes avoiding tape directly on the skin, taking breaks, keeping the area clean and dry, and stopping if there is pain, numbness or skin irritation. Anyone with ongoing discomfort should seek advice from a clinician or sexual health clinic.

What is a gaff?

A gaff is a snug garment, similar to underwear, designed to hold the genitals flat for a smoother look under clothes. Gaffs are commonly used for tucking by trans people and drag performers.

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