lesbian (n., adj.)

this term, which is preferred by most lesbians in the U.S., refers to "a woman whose emotional, sexual, romantic, physical, or spiritual energies are directed toward other women, and not toward men. We also extend its meaning to refer to ways of thinking and behaving that draw upon this primary identification, particularly when a Lesbian has become self-aware and consciously seeks out others like herself" (Julia Penelope and Susan J. Wolfe, Lesbian Culture). Examine the need to mention a person's sexual orientation; it is often gratuitous. Since "lesbian" includes the sense of "woman," the term "lesbian woman" is redundant. Respect the distinction between "gay" (men) and "lesbian" (women); when "gay" appears alone, you may generally assume it refers only to men. Occasionally "gay" is used as an adjective to include both women and men, but most often the adjective form is "lesbian and gay", or LGBT. See also butch, dyke, femme/fem, gay (adj.), gay rights, LGBT, LGLBTQIA/GLBTQIA, homophobia, homosexual.