The word "homophobic" refers to a fear, prejudice, or hostility towards individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and others). It describes attitudes, beliefs, or actions that are discriminatory against people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Homophobia can manifest in various ways, including derogatory language, social exclusion, and even violence.
The term "homophobic" is derived from the Greek prefix "homo-" meaning "same" (often used in reference to sexual orientation) and the suffix "-phobic" from the Greek "phobos," meaning "fear." Together, they convey the idea of an aversion or prejudice against those who are attracted to the same sex.