Friend Of Dorothy

What is a friend of Dorothy?

A person who identifies as LGBTQ

A "friend of Dorothy" is a person who identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ). It was coined in the mid-1900s to discreetly refer to a "queer" person, most often a gay man.

Due to the persecution of members of the queer community in the United States and other countries during the 20th century, the term became a codename among LGBTQ members. Individuals would use it to identify other members and schedule meet-ups that the greater heterosexual majority would not detect.

While the saying is not as common today, you may still hear it among LGBTQ members. Or you may see it shortened as the "FOD" acronym.

Origin of Friend of Dorothy

The origin of the term is not clear. Some argue that "Dorothy" refers to Dorothy Parker, a prominent New York poet and writer who was friends with many gay men in the 1920s and 1930s.

Others believe that "Dorothy" comes from the main character in The Wizard of Oz, who befriends outcasts, which is a feeling many LGBTQ members relate to. Also, Judy Garland, who played "Dorothy," is revered as an icon in the gay community.

Example

I'm pretty sure Brad is a friend of Dorothy
For sure. I thought the same thing
An LGBTQ friend of Dorothy sign
An LGBTQ friend of Dorothy sign

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Updated November 25, 2020

Friend of Dorothy definition by Slang.net

This page explains what the slang term "Friend of Dorothy" means. The definition, example, and related terms listed above have been written and compiled by the Slang.net team.

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