What is drag?

The term 'drag' is the colloquial term for wearing opposite-sex clothing, also known as cross-dressing.

Origin

The use of the term 'drag' in its current usage appeared around 1870, but its origins are uncertain. It is suggested that it originated as professional jargon when in the theater world someone's dress dragged across the floor (to drag). Another suggestion is that it comes from Shakespeare. Since women were not allowed to act, men played female roles in women's clothing. Drag would come from DRess As Girl.

Drag queen

A drag queen is a person, usually a man, who uses drag clothes and makeup to mimic and often exaggerate female gender signs and gender roles for entertainment purposes. Historically, most drag queens have been men who dress like women.

Drag king

Drag kings are usually female performance artists who dress in male costumes and personify male gender stereotypes as part of an individual or group routine, often for entertainment purposes.

RuPauls Drag Race

RuPaul's Drag Race is an American drag queen talent show that has been airing since 2009. This reality series was created by the drag queen and singer RuPaul. RuPaul is also the presenter of the series, as well as the main jury member.