ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Bear (gay slang)

Okay kiddo, so sometimes grown-ups like to use funny words to talk about things that are a little bit different than what most people expect. One word like that is "bear." When grown-up men use that word, they're usually talking about a group of men who are big and hairy, kind of like a bear!

Now, not all men who look like bears are actually part of this group. But if a man says he's a bear, it usually means that he likes other big, hairy men, too. It's kind of like a special club with its own secret language!

But just like with any group, it's important to remember that everyone is different, and not all bears are the same. Some might like to wear leather, others might be more into cuddling. It's okay to be different, and it's okay to be a bear or not be a bear. The most important thing is always to be kind and respectful to others, no matter who they are.
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