Closeted, or In the Closet, is a term used to describe an individual who isn't open about their queer identity.[1] One keeps their gender identity, orientation or another part of their queer identity a secret. One may only choose to disclose their identity to those closest to them, or they may not disclose it to anyone at all.[2]
There are many reasons why someone would stay in the closet, such as:[2]
- Fearing for one's physical safety
- Backlash from family members
- Workplace discrimination
- Lack of access to healthcare
Etymology[edit | edit source]
There isn't a single, correct interpretation of why the term is "in the closet." One interpretation of the term is representative of how a closet is a small, dark place that is considered private.[2]
History[edit | edit source]
There is no exact origin for the term "closeted" when related to LGBTQ+ spaces, but it has been used since the late 1960s.[2]
Flags & Symbols[edit | edit source]
A closeted flag was uploaded onto the Tumblr account Beyond MOGAI Pride Flags on July 17, 2021. There is no confirmed meaning behind the flag.[3]
Related Terms[edit | edit source]
| Label | Relationship | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Out | Opposite | Someone who is open about their queer identity. |
Sources[edit | edit source]
- ↑ Teo, Yu Sheng. “What Does It Mean to Be Closeted? | LGBT Terms Explained.” Heckin’ Unicorn, 16 Sept. 2021, heckinunicorn.com/blogs/heckin-unicorn-blog/understanding-closeted-meaning. Accessed 4 May 2024.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 Resnick, Ariane. “What Does It Mean to Be in the Closet?” Verywell Mind, 31 July 2021, www.verywellmind.com/what-does-it-mean-to-be-in-the-closet-5192426.
- ↑ beyond-mogai-pride-flags. “Closeted Pride Flag.” Tumblr, 17 July 2021, beyond-mogai-pride-flags.tumblr.com/post/656978679927341056/closeted-pride-flag. Accessed 4 May 2024.