Heteronormativity and Dictionaries: A Look Back Linguistic Perspectives on Sexuality in Education pp 77-118 | Cite as Łukasz Pakuła (1) 1. Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań , , Poznań , Poland Chapter First Online: 24 March 2021 Part of the Palgrave Studies in Language, Gender and Sexuality book series (PSLGS) Abstract The dictionary-sexuality interface to a great extent remains an uncharted research territory. Only recently has there been a small uptick in the interest in representations of sexualities in this type of reference works. From a theoretical- cum-practical vantage point, however, this research gap does not seem to be justified as dictionaries are vested with a powerful semantic authority thus potentially engendering real-life consequences. The aims of this chapter are twofold. Firstly, it sketches out the intimate and longstanding relation between lexicography and queer linguistics. Secondly, it addresses the research gap by making a case for queer critical metalexicography (QCM). To this end, a selection of sexuality-related dictionary entries is subjected to a diachronic scrutiny showcasing the practical implications of the concept of ‘degrees of heteronormativity’ for the purpose of critiquing reference works. Keywords queer critical metalexicography queer(ing) lexicography queer linguistics sexuality dictionaries degrees of heteronormativity This is a preview of subscription content, log in to check access. Appendix SEX MEDAL