A stud is a masculine-presenting identity rooted specifically in Black lesbian culture. While the term is sometimes used loosely online, it is not simply another word for any masc or butch lesbian. Its meaning is tied to Black queer history, community, and identity.
In this article, we’ll take you through the meaning of the term ‘stud,’ its history (as far as we can), the differences and overlap between ‘stud’ and other terms for masculine-presenting women, and polite usage.
What Does “Stud Lesbian” Mean?
To sum it up briefly, a stud lesbian is a Black lesbian whose gender presentation is on the masculine (or ‘masc’) side of the spectrum. There are two important things to keep in mind here.
The first is that the term is specific to the Black lesbian community. It should not be applied to non-Black masc lesbians, who may instead use broader terms such as ‘butch’ or ‘masc.’
The second is that not every masc-presenting Black lesbian identifies as a stud. It is more of a self-applied term, so it is best to wait until someone tells you that they use it rather than making assumptions based on their appearance.
The Black Lesbian History of “Stud”
The exact origins of the term ‘stud’ are uncertain. That said, a 1965 study by sociology professor and civil rights activist Ethel Sawyer features the first documented usage of the term. So although the term had been in use before that date, no exact date of origin has been recorded. We do know that it may have originated in the Midwestern United States, where some in Black lesbian communities used the term to describe themselves.
Masc-presenting queer Black women, of course, predate the 1960s and the term ‘stud.’ Different regional terms for masc-presenting queer Black women have developed alongside, and sometimes separately from, terms used by non-Black lesbians. For example, today, the term ‘AG’ (short for ‘aggressive’), used primarily in New York City, has a great deal of overlap with ‘stud,’ although usage can vary between communities.
The wider history also matters. During the civil rights movement and the development of modern LGBTQ+ activism, Black lesbians and other LGBTQ+ racial minorities were heavily involved in grassroots activism, often without receiving the same recognition as their white counterparts.
At the same time, the dominant lesbian feminism of the mid-to-late 20th Century has been criticised for focusing heavily on white, middle-class women. Black lesbians developed their own communities, language, and forms of lesbian feminism alongside it. ‘Stud’ emerged as part of this distinct Black lesbian culture.
For these reasons, ‘stud’ is generally understood as a term specific to Black queer communities rather than one that should be applied to non-Black people. Using it outside that context can be insensitive and may blur or erase the history and cultural roots that give the identity its meaning.
Stud vs Butch, Masc, and Stem
So, what are the differences between ‘stud,’ ‘butch,’ ‘masc,’ and ‘stem’? There are plenty of areas where these terms overlap, but they are not interchangeable. We have discussed the meaning and origins of ‘stud,’ so to differentiate, let us briefly touch on the other three terms here.
Butch
‘Butch’ is used broadly as a term for masculine-presenting queer women. It is important to note that this is not just a term that means ‘white stud.’ Butch culture is an identity with a storied and proud history, and can be claimed by women of any race.
Masc
‘Masc,’ as mentioned, means to present in a masculine style. Someone who describes themselves as ‘masc’ rather than ‘stud’ or ‘butch’ is not necessarily any less masculine in their presentation. After all, masculinity can take many forms.
It is a broader term, however, covering a wide range of masculine presentation, and can be adopted by queer men as well as women.
Stem
‘Stem,’ in this context, is another term unique to Black queer women, and is a combination of ‘stud’ and ‘femme.’ It combines elements of stud aesthetics and presentation with those of a femme identity, making it somewhat similar to the more universal ‘futch.’
The exact presentation (and use of the term) can vary from person to person. As with ‘stud,’ it is best not to assume that someone identifies as a stem lesbian without them telling you first.
Is “Stud” Offensive? How to Use the Term Respectfully
‘Stud’ is not, in and of itself, an offensive term. However, this does not mean that you should identify someone else as a stud lesbian by their appearance alone. Black queer women can — and do — identify as butch or masc without identifying as stud.
If someone describes themselves as a stud, then by all means follow their lead and use the language they use for themselves.
If you are not Black, however, you should avoid using ‘stud’ to describe yourself. The term has specific roots and significance within Black queer communities, rather than simply describing a masculine style of presentation.
Related Lesbian Identity Terms
Hopefully, this has left you a little more knowledgeable about what it means to be a stud lesbian, and why the term carries a meaning beyond simply being masculine-presenting.
We have also briefly touched on what it means to be butch, masc, and stem.
For specifically Japanese terms regarding lesbians, please check out this article.
