homophobia

noun

ho·​mo·​pho·​bia ˌhō-mə-ˈfō-bē-ə 

: discrimination against, aversion to, or fear of homosexuality or gay people compare transphobia

homophobic

ˌhō-mə-ˈfō-bik 

adjective

Examples of homophobia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It can be read as a direct allegory for conversion therapy and for other ways that homophobia can alter behavior and cause lasting psychological and emotional damage. — Jen Yamato, Los Angeles Times, 17 June 2026

A lot of it came from internalized homophobia and his own repression. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 16 June 2026

The different, but at times overlapping, vulnerabilities of these groups are created by choices made in our political and criminal justice processes, and by cultural attitudes and prejudices more generally, such as homophobia and misogyny. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 8 June 2026

Every Horror Film Spoofed in the New Scary Movie The new Scary Movie is laden with both deeply specific references and early-aughts homophobia. — Britina Cheng, Vulture, 5 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for homophobia

• rhizobia
• agoraphobia
• claustrophobia
• hydrophobia
• photophobia
• xenophobia
• phobia

Kids Definition

homophobia

noun

ho·​mo·​pho·​bia ˌhō-mə-ˈfō-bē-ə 

: irrational fear or dislike of or prejudice against homosexuality or gay people

homophobic

-ˈfō-bik 

adjective