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Tulip
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Composition
Simple
Countable
Plural form
tulips
Examples
The garden was adorned with a variety of tulips, creating a vibrant display of red, yellow, and pink flowers.
02
a gay man displaying feminine traits
Offensive
Slang
What is the origin of the term "tulip" and how is it used?
Tulip is a slang term that appeared in early–mid 20th-century English to describe a gay man who displays feminine traits. The word draws on the tulip flower as a metaphor for delicacy, beauty, and softness, emphasizing perceived gentleness or refinement in manner. Historically, it could be used playfully or teasingly within gay communities, but it also carried a mildly mocking edge when used by outsiders. Today, it is largely historical and uncommon, and using it outside knowledgeable or affectionate queer contexts may seem patronizing or outdated.
Examples
The tulip laughed at the joke and twirled.
