Lesbian
ˈlɛzbiən
adjective
Origin
Ancient Greek
Λέσβιος (Lésbios) — of or from the island of Lesbos
Overview
Meaning Now
- Of or relating to a woman who is sexually or romantically attracted to other women.
- A woman who is sexually or romantically attracted to other women.
Literal older meaning
A person from the island of Lesbos
Language path
Ancient Greek → Latin → English
Earliest form
Lesbian
Earliest period
17th century
Journey
The term derives from the island of Lesbos in the Aegean Sea, the home of the ancient lyric poet Sappho. Sappho's poetry frequently expressed affection for women, leading to the later association of the term 'Lesbian' with female homosexuality. The specific modern usage began to emerge in medical and literary discourse during the late 19th century.
Evolution
- Ancient Greek
Λέσβιος
“inhabitant of the island of Lesbos”
- Latin
Lesbius
“of Lesbos”
- 17th century English
Lesbian
“related to Lesbos”
Used in general geographic and classical contexts.
- 19th century English
Lesbian
“referring to sexual relations between women”
Influenced by the works of the ancient poet Sappho, who resided on Lesbos.
Connections
Word parts
Lesb-
root
referring to the island of Lesbos
-ian
suffix
denoting belonging or origin
Related across languages
French
lesbienne
lesbian
German
lesbisch
lesbian
Explore next
Related to Lesbian
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.