queer coding

[ kweer koh-ding ]

noun

1. the act of implying that a fictional character is LGBT+ through deliberate subtext or the use of stereotypes without confirming this directly:

   Because censors often prevented representation of LGBT characters, creators often had to rely on queer coding.

Word History and Origins

Origin of queer coding¹

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

It was all about queer coding in Hollywood.

From Salon

I think the ethos of that experience was easy to pull from, but the actual practical details of what we were just talking about, looking over your shoulder, and the coded language, the queer coding at that time .

From Salon