What is "down-low"

Down-low is an African American slang term that typically refers to a subculture of Black men who usually identify as heterosexual, but who have sex with men; some avoid sharing this information even if they have female sexual partner(s) married or single. The term is also used to refer to a related sexual identity. Down-low has been viewed as "a type of impression management that some of the informants use to present themselves in a manner that is consistent with perceived norms about masculine attribute, attitudes and behaviour".

Down-low (also "on the down low" or "on the DL") may refer to any activity or relationship kept discreet. Specifically, it may refer to:

• Keeping an act, action or some other piece of information a secret.
• Down-low (sexual slang): Men who identify as heterosexual, but have sex with men secretly.
• For more general meaning, see down low on Wiktionary.

In music, Down low can refer to:

• Down Low, rap/hip hop group
• " Down Low (Nobody Has to Know)", the R. Kelly song
• Down Low (album), the Betzefer album
• On The DL, The Pharcyde song

In television,

• " The Down Low", Episode 11, Season 6 of House M.D.