straight

In the context of human sexuality, "straight" is the most common colloquial term for a person who is heterosexual—someone attracted emotionally, romantically, or sexually to people of the opposite gender. The term's etymological roots in this context are traced back to the mid-20th century, evolving from the idiom "the straight and narrow path" (implying conventional morality) and later adopted into gay slang (and Polari) as an antonym to "bent" (a slang term for homosexuals). It was originally used to describe someone who did not engage in criminal activity or homosexuality, eventually narrowing to specifically mean non-gay.

Today, the term is widely considered the standard, neutral descriptor for heterosexuals and is used by people of all sexual orientations. It is preferred in casual conversation over the more clinical sounding "heterosexual." However, some linguistic critics and activists have historically questioned the term's implications. The objection stems from the idea that if one orientation is "straight," the opposite is "crooked," "deviant," or "bent," subtly reinforcing heteronormativity by framing heterosexuality as the linear, correct standard. Despite this, the term is not generally regarded as offensive in modern usage, provided it is not used to imply that LGBTQ+ people are "crooked."

Example:
"While the bar is historically a queer space, it has recently become popular with straight couples on weekends."

Example:
"He realized he wasn't straight during his sophomore year of college."