Notes on Language: Defining the Ace Spectrum

"Maisha," Taking the Cake, page 2-3 (2012).

Before diving into history, we must define the terms we will use throughout. Please note that this language is constantly evolving; for this exhibit, we will be relying on the split-attraction model that describes sexual, aesthetic, and romantic attraction as distinct, albeit often related, experiences. This list is far from comprehensive, and the materials included in this exhibit reflect the diversity of experiences and identities of those on the ace spectrum.

Asexuality refers to the absence of sexual attraction. It is also the umbrella term used to refer to the asexual spectrum community: the ‘A’ in 2SLGBTQIA+.

The asexual spectrum, ace spectrum, or gray-a spectrum refers to the diverse experiences of attraction that exist under the asexual umbrella. These identities, some of which are listed below, represent unique experiences of attraction that are outside of the heterosexual, heteroromantic paradigm. People on the asexual spectrum often feel alienated by our society’s focus on sexual and romantic relationships, face misunderstandings and stereotypes about their personality or worldview, and most chillingly, face oppression and violence stemming from the erroneous assumption that there is something ‘wrong’ with them.

Aromanticism refers to the lack of romantic attraction. It is possible to experience romantic attraction separately from sexual attraction, only experience one, or neither. Those who are both asexual and aromantic are often referred to as “aro-ace.”

Sex-repulsed refers to those who find the idea of sexual acts repulsive to them personally. Like other identities listed here, this experience does not make someone frigid or prudish — rather, it reflects the diversity of the human experience.

Demisexuality refers to people who only form a sexual attraction to someone when they have formed a deep emotional or romantic attraction to them first. This is one example of an identity on the asexuality spectrum that does not preclude someone from sexual or romantic attraction altogether, but still may impact one’s ability to relate to other people outside of the asexual spectrum.

Allosexual refers to people who are not on the asexual spectrum. Less commonly, you may see the terms z-sexual or zedsexual.

For a detailed explanation of asexuality that addresses attraction, arousal, relationships, and identity, please see The Asexuality Visibility and Education Network.

For a detailed question-and-answer formatted description of demisexuality and gray-asexuality, please see The Asexuality Archive.

Importantly, some of the contributors to our sources also define asexual as referring to someone who does not or cannot have sex. These definitions and experiences are complicated and, like other queer identities, this language exists to help people self-identify and form community. These diverse experiences of asexuality are reflected in our archive, especially the zines, and discussion around these terms is a frequent topic of discussion within. Likewise, our spinster history reflects understandings of sexuality around the turn of the 20th century.

Additionally, people on the asexual spectrum can and do occupy multidimensional queer identities: for example, someone can be panromantic and asexual, aromantic and gay, or a demisexual lesbian.

A recurring theme of this exhibit is the insufficiency of language to fully encompass the uniqueness and diversity of the human experience. However, this language is a tool to help us identify ourselves and one another; even as people throughout this exhibit struggle with finding the right words to express the complexity of their thoughts and feelings, they never stop trying to understand themselves and each other through thoughtful dialogue.