Gay describes a person who is attracted to people of the same gender, and is used most often for men attracted to men.
Gay refers to being attracted to people of the same gender. The word is used most often for men who are attracted to men, though many women and others use it to describe themselves too.
It is a sexual orientation, part of who a person is rather than a choice or a phase. Someone is gay whether or not they are currently in a relationship.
The term also serves as a broad umbrella at times, as in the gay community, covering a range of identities under the wider LGBTQ banner.
In dating, the label helps people state who they are looking for clearly, on profiles and in conversation.
Coming out as gay is personal and happens on each person’s own timeline. There is no right age or way to do it, and it is always the individual’s choice.