The term
fag hag is derogatory for several reasons. It could imply that such a female is unattractive to heterosexual men, is insecure about herself in regard to heterosexual dating and sex, is neurotic or needy, or is hiding her sexual attraction to gay men or to the particular gay man with whom she is spending time. The term could also offend a homosexual male in that a
fag hag could be perceived as a threat to a gay man's sexual identity and cultural solidarity within the gay community. In addition, the component words are derogatory:
fag is insulting to homosexuals and
hag is insulting to women. On the other hand,
fag hag is a controversial term. Some gay men do take it as inoffensive and some females even use it as a term of self-reference. In fact, it can be regarded as a term of solidarity between gay men and heterosexual females who associate with them. See also
faggot2.