Synonyms for

Gay

Verb / geɪ / Another word for gay — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Gay means being happy or joyful, as well as referring to someone who is attracted to the same gender.

Synonyms & similar words

cheery homophile jolly merry mirthful homo braw festal homosexual queer festive sunny jocund brave jovial happy joyful merry cheerful jovial lighthearted gleeful content delighted elated ecstatic blissful radiant gay-friendly homosexual lesbian queer transgender same-sex LGBTQ+

Synonyms by register

Formal

homosexual same-sex attracted

Informal

queer homo dyke lesbo

Literary

blithe merry jocund

Antonyms

straight heterosexual uninterested apathetic indifferent disinterested

Common collocations

  • gay pride
  • gay rights
  • gay community
  • gay marriage
  • gay couple
  • gay bar
  • gay culture
  • gay icon

Word family

noun gayness
adjective gay

Usage note

The word 'gay' is primarily used to describe homosexual individuals or relationships. While historically it meant 'merry' or 'carefree', this usage is now archaic and can cause confusion. It is generally considered informal to use 'queer' as a synonym, though it is reclaimed by some within the LGBTQ+ community.

Example sentences

  1. She was feeling gay after winning the game.
  2. The parade was filled with gay and colorful floats.
  3. He is a gay man who is proud of his identity.
  4. The couple had a gay wedding ceremony.
  5. The group of friends laughed and joked, feeling gay and carefree.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words