ellen
Pronunciation
/ˈɛɫən/
/ˈɛlən/

Definition & Meaning of "ellen"in English

Ellen
01

a lesbian

Offensive
Slang
Grammatical Information

What is the origin of the term "Ellen" and how is it used?

Ellen is a slang term that appeared in late 20th–early 21st-century English to refer to a lesbian. The term comes from the popularity of public figures named Ellen—most famously Ellen DeGeneres, one of the first openly lesbian celebrities in the United States—which led to her first name being used as a shorthand for lesbian identity. Historically, it could be neutral or playful, but depending on context, it could also carry a mocking tone. Today it is informal, and its appropriateness depends on context: it can be neutral or affectionate among LGBTQ+ people, but potentially confusing or patronizing if used by outsiders.

Examples
He called her an ellen.
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