skeive

Skeive is a term used in Danish and Norwegian to refer to people who identify as queer or who fall outside heterosexual and cisgender norms. It is commonly employed as an umbrella descriptor for a range of sexual orientations and gender identities that do not fit traditional expectations. The term is often presented as inclusive and is widely used in activism, media, and academic discourse.

Etymology and background are debated. The word is generally thought to derive from the Danish word skæv, meaning skewed, bent, or deviating. In this view, skeiv was reclaimed by LGBTQ+ communities as a way to describe lived experiences that differ from heterosexual norms, rather than as a medical or moral label. Because meanings shift over time and across communities, some people prefer other terms such as queer, LGBTQ+, or specific identities, while others continue to use skeiv as a self-identifier or umbrella term.

Usage and regional context vary. In Denmark and Norway, skeiv is used in everyday language, journalism, and organizing contexts to describe non-heteronormative perspectives. Attitudes toward the term differ among individuals; it can be embraced as empowering by some and avoided by others who find it outdated or confusing. The term does not have a single, universal meaning and its acceptability can depend on age, locale, and personal preference.

Notable usage includes institutional and cultural resources in Norway, where organizations and archives reference skeiv histories and culture. For example, Skeivt Arkiv is a Norwegian archive dedicated to preserving queer histories and materials, reflecting how skeive terminology permeates research, education, and public discourse.