
At UAB, the first and only straight-friendly ulpan, we believe that language is a reflection of culture, identity, and belonging. Gay slang in Hebrew (“סלנג הומואי” or “שפה הומואית”) is a prime example of how language evolves to meet the needs of a community. Its history, creativity, and humor offer an intriguing lens into Israel’s LGBTQ+ culture. Let’s explore its origins, features, and place in modern Hebrew.
The Origins of Gay Slang in Hebrew
Gay slang began to appear in Israel during the 1970s, making its way into certain literary works. By the 1980s, it started gaining traction through personal ads in LGBTQ+ newspapers and films. Initially, it consisted of isolated words, expressions, unique syntax, and distinct pronunciations of Hebrew words. In the late 1990s, Ronen Fary published the “Milon Even Shoshana” (“מילון אבן שושנה”) in the LGBTQ+ newspaper HaZman HaVarod (“הזמן הוורוד”), cataloging the gay slang of the time.
Over the years, the language evolved across various communities, even adopting local characteristics. Today, it is a vibrant and playful aspect of Israeli LGBTQ+ culture.
Key Features of Gay Slang
1. Community-Specific Communication: Gay slang is typical of a “speech community” (“קהילת דיבור”), a social group whose members interact regularly using specific linguistic patterns. It builds on Hebrew while borrowing words from English, French, German, Yiddish, and Arabic. Hebrew words are often pronounced differently or reimagined entirely, and even grammatical rules are subverted for effect.
2. Subversive and Playful: The language often challenges societal norms. For example, the phrase “כואב לי הכוס” (“My vagina hurts”) humorously subverts the standard “נשבר לי הזין” (“I’ve had enough”). It also acts as an anti-language, using phrases and terms that outsiders wouldn’t understand. For instance, asking, “אתה יוצא למקומות?” (“Do you go to places?”) refers specifically to LGBTQ+ venues.
3. Feminine Language: A hallmark of gay slang is its frequent use of feminine forms, even when referring to men. This playful manipulation critiques Hebrew’s perceived rigidity and exclusivity, while also expanding its expressive capacity. For instance, “מה איתוך” (“What’s with you?”) is intentionally pronounced in an incorrect feminine form to become a staple of the slang.
Representation in Israeli Culture
Gay slang has found its way into Israeli literature, LGBTQ+ newspapers, and films, such as those by Amos Gutman. In 2013, it was spotlighted in the comedy show Eretz Nehederet (“ארץ נהדרת”), which featured over-the-top depictions of urban gay men. It also appeared in series like Ima VeAbaz (“אמא ואבאז”) and Tamid Oto Halom (“תמיד אותו חלום”).
Music, too, reflects this linguistic flair. Songs like Omer Adam’s “Tel Aviv” (“תל אביב”), Eden Ben Zaken’s “Malka HaShoshanim” (“מלכת השושנים”), and Sarit Hadad’s “Circus” (“קרקס”) incorporate LGBTQ+ slang. The 2019 cult series Zot VeZoti (“זאת וזאתי”) was a treasure trove of Tel Aviv’s gay slang, cementing its status in pop culture and internet memes.
Examples of Gay Slang in Hebrew
Here are some standout examples:
אוחץ'/אוחצ'ה (“Ohotz/Ohotzeh”) — A term for effeminate gay men.
בוצ'/בוצ'ה (“Butch/Butcheh”) — A term for a lesbian with masculine traits.
ג'ונג' (“Jong”) — A unique term for male genitalia.
דוב (“Dov”) — A bear; a heavyset, hairy, often bearded gay man.
וודג' (“Wedge”) — Face; derived from Arabic.
וִיֶאז'ה (“Vieja”) — An older gay man; from Ladino, meaning “old woman.”
לירד/לארד (“Lird/Lard”) — A gorgeous, godlike man; inspired by “The Lord.”
נֶש (“Nesh”) — Femininity; “על הנש” means being in drag or embodying a feminine role.
פאטוץ' (“Patuch”) — Bye or “see ya.”
קוּקִיצָה (“Kukitza”) — A young, flamboyant, feminine gay man; derived from “cookie.”
תרימי (“Trimi”) — A playful retort, urging someone to cheer up or show off; from “Lift yourself, sister!”
At UAB, we go beyond teaching Hebrew. We introduce you to the culture, humor, and vibrancy that make the language come alive. If you’re ready to learn Hebrew in an open, inclusive, and straight-friendly environment, join us today!
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