The term “chicken hawking” is a slang used in gay culture to refer to older gay men who seek out relationships and sexual encounters with younger male partners. It is sometimes used as a derogatory term within the LGBTQ community. Let’s break down the meaning and origins of this phrase.
The Origins and Literal Meaning
The term combines “chicken”, which is slang for a young, inexperienced gay male, with “hawk”, referring to the predatory bird that hunts for smaller prey So chicken hawking literally refers to an older gay man pursuing younger gay men for sex or relationships.
The word “chicken” in this context dates back to the early 1900s while “chicken hawk” emerged in the mid-20th century. The term was further popularized in the 1994 documentary “Chicken Hawk Men Who Love Boys” which examined controversies around older gay men seeking underage partners.
How It’s Used
These days, the term “chicken hawk” refers to an older gay man who usually looks for much younger men to have sex with. It seems to imply that he only wants to date younger men and not people his own age.
The terms “chicken queen” and “chicken plucker” also refer to an older gay man who likes younger men sexually. In the gay community, these words are sometimes used neutrally or positively, but they can also be used negatively.
Negative Connotations
Some people use “chicken hawk” in a neutral way, while others think it’s an insult. Some people think that chicken hawks take advantage of young men who don’t have much life experience. This phrase can mean that the older man is using his money, power, or experience to control his younger, less experienced partners.
Within the LGBTQ community, “chicken hawk” is sometimes viewed as a slur against older gay men. It can imply their attraction to younger adults is somehow deviant or predatory. However, others in the gay community argue these relationships can be healthy and consensual.
Patterns vs Individuals
It’s important to note that while “chicken hawking” points to a pattern of behavior, it doesn’t necessarily apply to all older gay men. An older gay man may enter a relationship with a younger partner for many reasons beyond exploitative intent.
There are some age-gap gay relationships that don’t fit the predatory stereotype of “chicken hawking.” As with any relationship, ethics depend more on how people treat each other than on a general rule.
Clarifying the Meaning
Rhymes for chicken hawk
“Chicken hawk.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chicken hawk. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.
Examples of chicken hawk in a Sentence
circa 1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1 Time Traveler
Chicken hawk Meaning
FAQ
What does “chickens” mean in slang?
In slang, “chicken” primarily refers to someone who is cowardly, easily scared, or lacking in courage. It can also be used to describe a young or inexperienced person. In some contexts, it can refer to a young male homosexual, or even petty rules or regulations.
What is a chickenhawk in politics?
In political usage, chickenhawk is a compound of chicken (meaning ‘coward’) and hawk from war hawk (meaning ‘someone who advocates war’). Usually, it’s assumed that chickenhawks aren’t brave enough to go to war themselves and would rather ask others to support, fight, and die in a war.
How to get rid of chicken hawks?
To protect chickens from chicken hawks, several strategies can be employed, including physical barriers like netting or a covered run, visual deterrents such as shiny objects and scarecrows, and the use of guard animals or predator calls.
What does chicken trilling mean?
Chicken trilling is a soft, warbling sound chickens make when they are content and relaxed, similar to a cat purring. It’s a sign of happiness and well-being in chickens according to some sources.