Bakarawan

Bakarawan (plural: Bakarawanen) is a Filipino term primarily used in the LGBTQ+ community to refer to a gay person, typically one who is flamboyant, effeminate, or visibly queer. The term often carries a somewhat humorous or affectionate connotation, though it can also be used derisively depending on the context and speaker. While sometimes used interchangeably with other terms for gay men, "bakarawan" often highlights an outward expression of gay identity that diverges from societal norms of masculinity.

The term's etymology is not definitively established, but it is speculated to be derived from, or influenced by, the Tagalog word "bakla," a more general term for a person assigned male at birth who identifies as female or expresses themselves in a feminine manner. While "bakla" can encompass transgender women, gay men, and gender-non-conforming individuals, "bakarawan" is more specifically associated with gay men who exhibit exaggerated feminine traits or behaviors.

It's important to note that the use and acceptance of the term "bakarawan" varies within the Filipino LGBTQ+ community and among different generations. Some individuals find the term empowering and embrace it as a form of self-expression, while others consider it offensive due to its potential for stereotyping and reinforcing negative connotations. As with many terms related to identity and sexuality, context and intention are crucial in understanding its use and impact.