butch
Plural
butches
2
a lesbian who presents herself in a masculine way
Butch is a term for a lesbian who presents herself in a masculine way, often through clothing, hairstyle, body language, and social roles. The term originated in mid-20th-century lesbian bar culture and became a central identity in the butch–femme dynamic, where butch individuals were often paired with femme partners. Butch identity can be an important part of self-expression and community belonging, and it remains a visible and celebrated role in many LGBTQ spaces.
- That butch wore a flannel shirt and boots to the Pride parade.
- Everyone recognized her as a butch from her confident, masculine style.
- A butch often embraces short hair, practical clothing, and a strong presence.
- She joked about being the resident butch of the group.
- That butch energy was obvious in how she carried herself.