"Flamer" is usually used in reference to a gay male who is effeminate and flamboyant in his dress, actions and speech. This person usually exhibits stereotypical traits of what people assume gay men are like.

For example, this person may use elaborate hand gestures, become very emotional, take extra care of his wardrobe or act extremely campy. Simply put, this person is assumed to be gay by others even if the person in question never openly says it.

The term "flamer" first evolved within the gay community during the 1970s, but its real origins go way back. According to an etymology source, the word "flamer" developed from the Middle English word "flamen," which meant "burning passion."

It was later used in the late 1700s/early 1800s to mean someone who was "glaringly conspicuous" (in other words, someone who stands out or draws attention to himself). Surprisingly enough, some suggest "flamer" was used to refer only to females during this time, though it is mainly used in reference to men today.

While some within the gay community have reclaimed the term "flamer" (like the term "queer"), it is still used in a derogatory manner.

For example, the religious right-wing politician Pat Buchanan called Mark Foley, a Republican congressman, "a flamer" on national television after it was found that Foley had sent sexually explicit emails to other young men. It was clear that Buchanan meant this as an insult towards Foley's sexual orientation.

Besides calling someone a flamer, the term can also take the variation of "flaming" or "flaming gay."