ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Hanky code

Hey there kiddo! Do you know what a hanky is? You know, the thing you use to wipe your nose when it's runny? Well, did you know that some grown-ups use them for something else too?

It's called the hanky code, and it's a way for people to tell other people what they're into (like boys, girls, leather, or even just cuddling) by wearing a hanky in their back pocket.

For example, if someone wears a pink hanky in their back pocket, it might mean that they like boys who are sweet and gentle. If someone wears a black hanky, it might mean they're into leather and want to get a little rough.

It's important to remember that not everyone uses the hanky code, and some people might wear a hanky just because they like the color or the way it looks. You should never assume someone is into something just because of the color of their hanky.

The hanky code started a long time ago in the LGBTQ+ community as a way to communicate with each other without having to say anything out loud. It's still used today by some people, but it's not as popular as it used to be.
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