Definition of drag queen

The term "drag queen" originated in the 1920s, specifically in the context of African American and LGBTQ+ communities in the United States. The word "drag" originally referred to the act of dressing in women's clothing by men, often for comic or theatrical purposes. The word "queen" was added to the term "drag" to further emphasize the flamboyant, campy, and often effeminate persona that many drag queens adopt. The emergence of drag culture is heavily linked to the cabarets and jazz clubs that flourished during the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s. Performing in drag was a way for individuals to challenge strict gender norms and explore their identities in a safe and accepting environment. The term "drag queen" was coined to describe the most flamboyant and performative of these individuals. Over time, drag culture became a prominent feature of gay and lesbian subcultures, particularly in urban areas like New York City and San Francisco. Drag shows and competitions gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s as part of the wider social and political activism of the time. Today, drag culture continues to evolve and expand, with mainstream media attention and international competition shows like RuPaul's Drag Race. In summary, the term "drag queen" originated in the United States during the 1920s to describe men who dressed in women's clothing in a highly stylized and performative manner. The term has come to represent a rich and multifaceted aspect of queer culture that continues to evolve and challenge traditional notions of gender and sexuality.