variants
or less commonly dike
plural dykes also dikes
usually disparaging + offensive; see usage paragraph below
: lesbian
Usage of Dyke
Dyke is sometimes used as a neutral or positive self-descriptor, but it has a long history of pejorative use and is likely to be considered offensive when used by someone who does not identify as a lesbian.
Cite this Entry
“Dyke.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dyke. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
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