[1] [2] It originated as a homophobic slur for masculine, butch, or androgynous girls or women. Pejorative use of the word still exists, but the term dyke has been reappropriated [3] by many lesbians to imply assertiveness and toughness [4] (for example: the …

From the mid-19th century to the early 20th century, dike had been American slang for the well-dressed man. Diked out and out on the dike meant a young man was in his best clothes. The word dyke was used in the 1950s as a derogatory term for lesbians by straight people.

Feb 21, 2023 · Back in the late 19th century, ‘bulldyke’ was used as a slur to stereotype women who didn’t conform to societal expectations of femininity, and people didn’t hesitate to say it every time they encountered a lesbian, especially butch lesbians.

Sep 19, 2024 · Today, “dike” is predominantly used to describe a woman who identifies as a lesbian, particularly one who exhibits more masculine traits or attributes. However, its usage can vary across different communities and individuals, leading to both empowerment and offense.

Jan 26, 2023 · However, there is a distinct difference between the two. A stud is typically a self-identified lesbian woman who presents in a masculine or androgynous manner, whereas a dyke is a lesbian woman who expresses herself in a more traditionally feminine way.

It originated as a homophobic slur for masculine, butch, or androgynous girls or women. Pejorative use of the word still exists, but the term dyke has been reappropriated by many lesbians to imply assertiveness and toughness (for example: the Dykes on Bikes motorcycle club).

Oct 2, 2024 · The words dyke, dike, bulldyke or similar, commonly refer to a lesbian, particularly one with masculine or butch traits (although femmes can also be dykes). The word is commonly considered a derogatory slur, but has been reclaimed and used positively by some lesbians.

Jul 5, 2024 · Founded in 1976, Dykes on Bikes often lead Pride parades. They symbolize strength, freedom, and visibility for the lesbian community. Their presence at these events highlights the pride and defiance embodied in the term dyke and underscores the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and recognition.

Sep 3, 2020 · Much of the word’s origin is not known, but dyke appears in print c.1930 and is most likely a clipping of the older bull dyke and bulldyker. But the origin of these older terms remains a mystery with several plausible explanations. First, the facts: The earliest known appearance of bulldyke is actually as a nickname for a man.

See examples of DYKE used in a sentence.