A "friend of Dorothy" (FOD) is a code word for a gay man, first used in LGBTQ slang. Stating that, or asking if, someone is a friend of Dorothy is a furtive way of suggesting sexual orientation while avoiding hostility. The term was likely based on the character Dorothy Gale of the Oz series of novels, which have been interpreted as including much queer subtext. Actress Judy Garland, who portrayed Dorothy in the 1939 Wizard of Oz film, is considered a gay icon. Writer and critic Dorothy Parker is thought to be another potential origin of the term. The "friend of Dorothy" code word was commonly used throughout the 20th century, but its use has declined in recent decades as LGBT acceptance has advanced.