In today’s world, we sometimes have very complex ideas wrapped up in such simple words. Language is not just a method of communication; it’s how we define ourselves and others. For marginalized communities, reclaiming words that were once used to hurt them can be an act of empowerment. For many people in larger bodies, the word “fat” has been reclaimed and is increasingly being used as a neutral descriptor, just like “short,” “tall,” or “thin.” But why does this shift in language matter so much? Let’s dive into why the words we choose, especially when discussing body size, are important.
Reclaiming Fat
For many people in larger bodies, “fat” is now a preferred word because it’s neutral, stripped of the shame or negativity that often comes with other euphemisms. Words like “curvy”, “fluffy”, “chunky”, “husky”, or “plus size” may feel like a way of softening the truth, but they can also mask the reality of being in a larger body. Using “fat” without discomfort or shame helps to normalize the fact that people come in all sizes, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
However, because “fat” has historically been used as an insult, not everyone is comfortable with the word. It’s important to respect individual preferences by asking people how they identify. Descriptors like “people in larger bodies” or “bodies of size” are also commonly accepted and may be more appropriate in some contexts.
Understanding Anti-Fat Bias
It’s essential to recognize that not all fat people experience the same degree of anti-fat bias. While most people in larger bodies encounter some form of bias—whether it’s dismissive comments or lack of consideration in healthcare—not everyone experiences systemic oppression.
For example, a person who wears a size 16-18 may face criticism from family or medical professionals, but they may not face the systemic challenges that someone much larger does. A much larger bodied individual may face barriers like denial of healthcare treatments, a lack of accessible public spaces, and what’s known as the “fat tax.” This includes having to pay extra for daily necessities such as clothing, furniture, seatbelt extenders, or even additional airplane tickets. These challenges are real and serve as a form of oppression that disproportionately affects those in larger bodies.
*(Read more about anti-fat bias in our dedicated blog post here.)*
The Concept of “Fat-egories”
To better understand and communicate these differing experiences, the fat activism community has adopted the concept of “fat-egories”—terms used to describe a person’s size in a way that reflects both their body and the level of accessibility they experience in the world. These categories are not rigid definitions; rather they serve to capture the subjective experiences of living in a world that isn’t always designed with larger bodies in mind.
Here’s a breakdown of the fat-egories:
– Straightsized: Under size 14
– Smallfat: Sizes 14-18 or XL/1X
– Midfat: Sizes 20-24 or 2X/3X
– Largefat: Sizes 26-32 or 4X/5X
– Superfat: Sizes 34+ or 6X+
By using these terms, individuals can identify where they are positioned on the size spectrum and communicate the unique challenges they face due to their size. This also helps highlight how size intersects with privilege and oppression in different ways.
Conclusion
The language we use to talk about bodies—especially fat bodies—has power. If you are in a larger body, consider what it might be like to use the word fat in a neutral way to describe yourself. For many, it can shift the stance from one of hiding and avoiding to embracing the reality of who you are without shame.
If you know someone in a larger body, make sure to default to your loved one’s preferences for language. Not everyone is ready for the word “fat”. Likewise, acknowledging the varying degrees of bias and oppression faced by people across the weight spectrum is crucial to creating a more inclusive and supportive world for all bodies.
Remember, language is a tool. Let’s use it thoughtfully and inclusively to build a society where everyone feels seen, respected, and empowered.
(For more resources on body size and language, check out our other posts on anti-fat bias and the importance of body diversity.)
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