Lesbian type
Stud
A proud term from Black and Latina lesbian communities
What is a stud lesbian?
A stud is a masculine presenting lesbian or sapphic person, and the term comes from Black and Latina lesbian communities in the United States. Stud is similar to butch in some ways, but it carries its own culture, style and history. Many in the community ask that non-Black people not use it for themselves.
Signature traits
The stud look
- Fresh sneakers and fitted caps
- Streetwear, jerseys and hoodies
- Durags, waves, locs, braids or fades
- Crisp button-downs or suits for events
- Chains, watches and clean jewelry
Stud in love
Like any identity, studs are individuals, and no label can tell you how one person loves. Within the community, studs are often celebrated for confidence, style and a protective, attentive way of caring for partners. Stud and femme pairings are a beloved tradition, and stud for stud relationships exist too. The best way to understand how a stud shows up in love is the same as with anyone: listen to her, not to stereotypes.
Where the word comes from
Stud comes from Black and Latina lesbian communities in the US, where it developed as a word for masculine presenting women with its own culture, slang, fashion and social scenes. It overlaps with butch but is not just 'butch for Black women'. Stud is tied to Black and Latina culture, including hip hop and streetwear influences, and to community spaces where these women built lives together. Many Black lesbians ask that non-Black people not use stud for themselves, because it is a cultural identity, not only a style. That is why this site's test never assigns it as a result.
Myths about stud lesbians
One myth is that stud and butch are interchangeable. They overlap, but stud has a specific cultural origin and meaning, and treating them as the same erases that. Another myth is that any masculine lesbian can call herself a stud. Many in the community see that as appropriation when non-Black people do it. Studs also deal with harmful stereotypes about being aggressive or hard. Like everyone, studs can be gentle, goofy, shy, emotional and deeply loving.
Why the test does not assign stud
Our lesbian types test asks about style and energy, not about race or culture. Because stud is a cultural identity from Black and Latina lesbian communities, it would not be right for a quiz to hand it to anyone who answers 'masc' on a few questions.
If you are a Black or Latina masculine lesbian, you do not need a quiz to tell you that you are a stud. If you are not, the closest results on the test are butch or soft butch.
Stud vs butch
- Both describe masculine presenting lesbians and sapphics.
- Butch grew from mostly white, working class bar culture, though butches of all races have always existed.
- Stud grew from Black and Latina lesbian communities and carries their culture and style.
- A Black masculine lesbian might call herself stud, butch, both or neither. It is her call.
Talking about studs respectfully
- Use the word for people who claim it.
- Do not use it as a costume or an aesthetic if you are not part of the community it comes from.
- Do not assume a Black masculine woman is a stud. Ask, or wait to be told.
- Avoid stereotypes about studs being aggressive or emotionally cold.
Related identities
Stem is a related term from the same communities, describing someone who blends stud and femme. Other masculine terms include boi and masc of center, which you can find in the glossary.
Stud style and culture
Stud style often draws on Black and Latina fashion, hip hop and streetwear: fresh sneakers, fitted caps, crisp jeans, sharp haircuts and well chosen jewelry. For events, many studs go all out with tailored suits. Style is personal, of course, and no two studs dress exactly alike.
Who studs often click with
Stud FAQ
What does stud mean in lesbian culture?
A stud is a masculine presenting lesbian or sapphic person, and the term comes from Black and Latina lesbian communities in the US. It overlaps with butch but carries its own culture, style and history. It is a proud identity within those communities.
Can a white lesbian call herself a stud?
Many Black lesbians ask that non-Black people not use stud for themselves, because it is a cultural identity rather than just a style. Respecting that request is the kind move. A masculine white lesbian has other good words to choose from, like butch, soft butch or masc.
What is the difference between a stud and a butch?
Both describe masculine presenting lesbians. Butch comes from mid 20th century bar culture and is used across races. Stud comes specifically from Black and Latina lesbian communities and carries their culture, fashion and history. Some people use both, and it is up to each person which word fits.