lesbianism

[ lez-bee-uh-niz-uhm ]

noun

1. female sexual desire or behavior directed toward people of the same sex or gender; gay female sexual orientation.
2. (of a woman) the state of being sexually attracted only to people of the same sex or gender.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lesbianism¹

First recorded in 1865–70; lesbian + -ism

Example Sentences

“Strangers on a Train,” or the “Pleasure Garden,” where there is explicit lesbianism.

From Salon

Rich claimed her lesbianism and Sontag didn’t, and we know the effect that had on their careers.

From New York Times

Children are taught gayism and lesbianism,'' he told the Nation newspaper.

From BBC

Last week a magistrate ordered two teachers suspected of promoting lesbianism to be held behind bars, saying he feared for their lives if they were released.

From Los Angeles Times

“I was told I was bringing something foreign into Chile, that I wanted to see lesbianism everywhere.”

From New York Times