Orientation

Sexual Orientation refers to what gender(s) or sex(es) a person can become attracted to. The term is usually used to encompass multiple forms of attraction but in some cases refers purely to sexual attraction wherein a person's orientation is split into two parts: romantic orientation and sexual orientation. This is especially useful for people who experience a difference in these two aspects of attraction (something common with asexuals in particular).

Before the reclamation of 'cissexual' in the english language, most labels for sexual orientation relied on a binary understanding of gender, which created problems for those who are nonbinary or questioning. The reclaimation of the term "cissexual" largely erased this problem, as it is able to describe whether or not one's sexuality falls within the assigned-at-birth gender binary.

Most common labels

Heterosexual / Straight

Attracted to those of the opposite gender/sex.

Homosexual / Gay (male) / Lesbian (female)

Attraction to those of the same gender/sex.

Bisexual

Attraction to 2 or more genders.

Cissexual

A person who is only attracted to cisgender people of their preferred sex. It can be used as a modifier of other sexualities (a cissexual heterosexual, cissexual homosexual), or used on its own.

Polysexual

Romantic/sexual attraction to some, but not all, genders.

Omnisexual

Attraction to all genders, however, gender is a factor in attraction.

Pansexual

Not limited in sexual choice with regard to biological sex, gender, or gender identity.

Asexual

A person who feels little to no sexual attraction to anyone.

Skoliosexual

A person who is only attracted to transgender people.

External links

• Sexual orientation on sexuality
• Sexual orientation on Sexual Orientation Wiki