BDSM Vocab 101 aims to define what you can look forward to experiencing during your customized yoga practice session. If you have any questions regarding these terms or terms not listed here, please address them via email.
D/s - Dominance and Submission : In D/s, both parties take pleasure from either dominating or being dominated. Those who take the superior position are called dominants, doms (male) or dommes (female), while those who take the subordinate position are called submissives or subs (male or female). A switch is an individual who plays in either role.
BDSM represents a variety of practices involving dominance and submission, role-playing, restraint, and other interpersonal dynamics. The term BDSM dates back to 1969, however the origin of the term BDSM is unclear, and is believed to have been formed either from joining the term B&D (bondage and discipline) with S&M (sadomasochism or sadism and masochism), or as a compound initialism from B&D, D&S (dominance and submission), and S&M.
A safeword is a code word or series of code words that are sometimes used in BDSM for a submissive (or "bottom") to unambiguously communicate their physical or emotional state to a dominant (or "top"), typically when approaching, or crossing, a physical, emotional, or moral boundary. Some safewords are used to stop the scene outright, while others can communicate a willingness to continue, but at a reduced level of intensity.
A dominatrix or mistress is a woman who takes the dominant role in bondage, discipline (in the fetish sense of the word) and sadomasochism, or BDSM. A common form of address for a submissive to a dominatrix is "mistress", "ma'am", "domina" or "maîtresse". Note that a dominatrix does not necessarily dominate a male partner; a dominatrix may well have female submissives, nor must the role of a dominatrix involve physical pain toward the submissive; her domination can be verbal, involving humiliating tasks and servitude.
An appointment or roleplay is referred to as a "session", and is often conducted in a dedicated professional play space which has been set up with specialty equipment, such as a "dungeon". In the contemporary era of technological connectivity, sessions may also be conducted remotely by phone, email or online chat.
Terms Dictionary
A
Abrasion - (See also: Cutting , Knife Play ) Dictionary term meaning a wearing, grinding, or rubbing away by friction. In BDSM play this would include stimulating the surface of the body with abrasive materials such as rough silk, leather, sandpaper, brushes, etc.
Age Play - Acting as if you were either younger or perhaps older than you really are.
Animal Role Playing - Games in which one or more partners, usually the bottom, takes on the role of an animal. Most common is probably a dog, or puppy boy / girl though horses are also popular. The 'animal' may imitate animal behavior, wear items such as collars, leads, bridles and so on, or carry out tasks associated with animal behavior.
Arm / Leg Sleeves - Play which involves binding the arms/legs of the submissive in an attempt to restrict mobility.
Aromas - (See also: Hot Oils ) Play which involves the use of certain aroma therapy to induce relaxation. Also referred to as "poppers". In some instances these can be volatile compounds whose vapors cause temporarily increased heart and breathing rates, muscle relaxation, and a "rushing" feeling in the head.
Asphyxiation - (See also Breath Control , Choking ) Commonly referred to as "breath control". Refers to play involving control of or restriction of air and / or oxygen to the brain. Any form of stopping breathing freely including choking, smothering and hoods with tubes, sacks, plastics, etc, is asphyxia. Other examples would be strangling which is compression of the neck or throat area to prevent oxygen to the brain; suffocation involves reducing the level of oxygen available to breathe; hanging where the body is suspended by the neck (remember, all these games are extremely dangerous , either alone or with a partner, and may cause DEATH ).
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B
Beating - (See also: Spanking , Caning ) Striking the body with various objects or the hand. Typically administered as punishment in connection with childhood punishments. For example, the Dominant may administer a "beating" to an unruly submissive.
Biting - Scenes involving the biting of the skin to induce pain. Safety Note: Although certain types of nibbling/biting are quite safe, extreme biting causing breaking/bleeding of the skin is not recommended and can be dangerous if not carefully done.
Blindfolds - (See also: Full-Head Hoods ) Play which involves temporarily blocking the submissive's sense of sight. This type of play is essential when everyday objects are used to give unexpected sensations. Blindfolds come in many forms from the more expensive leather (full-head type) to the more inexpensive handkerchiefs, scarves, bandages. Safety Note: Do not make the blindfold too tight as to put pressure on the eyeballs. Although some people take blindfolding in stride, it can have unpredictable psychological effects and be extremely frightening for some people.
Breast / Chest Bondage - (See also: Bondage ) The restriction / bondage of the woman's breast / chest area using various types of fastenings (i.e., rope, scarves, etc.).
Breath Control - (See also: Asphyxiation , Choking ) Refers to play involving control of or restriction of air and / or oxygen to the brain. Other examples would be strangling, which is compression of the neck/throat area to prevent the flow of oxygen to the brain. Suffocation involves reducing the level of oxygen available to breathe; hanging where the body is suspended by the neck (remember, all these games are dangerous to play, either alone or with a partner).
Branding - (See also: Cutting , Knife Play , Tattoo ) Making a permanent or semi-permanent scar on the skin by burning it with a hot metal object, as practiced on livestock. Seen by some as "body art", this technique can be carried out safely; however, it is still likely to be intensely painful. Can also use temporary tattoos or markers. Used by Dominants to mark Their property. Not for the novice.
Boot Worship - (See also: Foot Worship , Homage , High Heels) The practice of play involving a fetish for boots / shoes. Commonly used for Domination and humiliation practices (i.e., licking or cleaning of the Dominant's boots, shoes or bare feet).
Bondage - (See also: Breast / Chest Bondage , Immobilization , Intricate Japanese Rope Bondage , Manacles / Irons , Mummification , Shibari , Spreader Bar , Straight Jacket ) The restriction of a person's bodily movements using fastenings of various types or textures. Also used in S/m practices though with a heavier pretense. Examples; Rope, cuffs, chains, and other restraining apparatus.
Breast Whipping - Whipping of the submissive's chest area using a variety of items which include: floggers, whips, cat tails, paddles, for erotic purposes.
Bruising - A condition which may occur as a result of pinching or striking. Care should be taken to avoid bruising.
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C
Cages - Most common is the use of a large animal cage. Construction of a cage can be of wood, steel, fencing material. Used to confine the submissive, for play or punishment.
Caning - (See also: Beating , Whipping ) Caning - Mostly made of bamboo, this whip is by far the most painful. Care should be used, as the welts from caning are slow to rise, and blood can be accidentally drawn if not in constant monitoring. Caning should be limited to the fleshy part of the buttocks, and nowhere else on the body. This can be very dangerous , and is not for the novice.
Cattle Prod - An electrical prodding device used to herd animals, more frequently for cattle. Sometimes used in S/m play for "branding" or serious hardcore pain play, and is considered dangerous play.
Cells or Closets - Play which involves locking the submissive in a cell-type device and / or closet. Usually as a form of punishment. Not recommended for claustrophobics.
Chains - A strong metal type of bondage material used in bondage scenes. Chains are less flexible and potentially more dangerous than other types of bondage material. Note: Always make sure you observe metal bondage rules and choose a chain and equipment that will withstand heavier strain.
Chastity Belt - (See also: Enforced Chastity ) In S/m circles, meaning the banning or physically preventing one (male or female) from achieving orgasm or any form of genital stimulation. A means of domination over one's submissive. A device (lockable ) panty-type which when worn prevents any type of genital stimulation.
Chauffeuring - Requiring one's submissive to "chauffeur" them around physically in vehicles or other types of transportation.
Choking - (See also: Asphyxiation , Breath Control ) Compression of the carotid arteries in order to restrict air or blood flow to the brain. This form of play is dangerous.
Clothespins - (See also Nipple Clamps) Small pinning devices used for hanging clothes. Generally used in BDSM play as quite effective nipple clamps, testicle clamps, etc. Great for the bargain BDSM player! Be sure the wood doesn't become stuck to the skin while removing, as it will remove skin from body.
Cock Ring - Rubber, metal, or leather type ring used to strap around the base of the cock and balls when soft. Increases blood flow to the genital area during self stimulation and sex. When released, causes minor pain during recurring blood flow.
Cock Worship - (See also: Homage , Licking ) Play which involves the fantasy of worshiping the cock. Performed mostly by the submissive to the Dominant. Scenes might include licking and / or fellatio. Even some female Dominants may use strap-ons that are worshiped by the submissive male or female.
Collar - A collar worn around the neck to indicate one's submissiveness. These can be made of leather, steel, rubber, rope. Used in scenes for humiliation and / or examples such as dog / puppy or even boy / girl play.
Corsets - A lingerie / binding type device worn to restrict the chest area and make the waist smaller. Worn by early 19th Century women as a form of formal dress to make one's self more appealing to the opposite sex.
Cuffs - A leather or metal bondage device used to restrict movement. Usually locks around the limbs in order to place the submissive in a precarious position.
Cutting - (See also: Abrasion , Branding , Castration Fantasy , Knife Play ) Cutting the surface of the skin with sharp objects, generally a knife, for the thrill, sensation, or pain. To also create decorative scars. The same basic precautions apply as with other types of blood play. Remember to stay away from vital organ areas and genital cutting. See also Abrasion, Branding, or Castration Fantasy.
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D
Diapers - Waterproof panties or cloth worn in BDSM play for the object of child-playing scenes. Also used in control scenes for controlling bodily functions.
Dominant - The one in charge, or the top who oversees and controls. A Dominant should be well versed in many areas of play for safety. The responsible One.
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E
Electricity - (See also: TENS Unit , Violet Wand ) Using electricity in BDSM play seems a scary notion to most people, but it can easily be made safe provided two simple rules are followed: a) only use devices powered by low-voltage batteries, and certainly no main-powered appliances; and b) avoid placing any contacts above the waist (including hands or arms), as even small currents to the heart or brain can disrupt those organs' delicate electrical activity with serious consequences. Popular devices include "TENS" units designed for the relief of muscle and back pain; and "Violet Wands" which use a radio frequency discharge, and can be used above the waist provided the face is avoided. Any form of this play can be dangerous .
Enforced Chastity - (See also: Chastity Belt ) In BDSM / S/m circles, meaning the banning or physically preventing one from achieving orgasm or any form of genital stimulation. A means of domination over one's submissive. A device (lockable ) panty-type which when worn prevents any type of genital stimulation. See also “Chastity belt”
Exercise - Play which involves forcing one's submissive to exert physical exercise as a form of control / humiliation (may include lifting, running, weight-lifting, etc.).
Exhibitionism - Common dictionary term meaning a perversion marked by a tendency to indecent exposure; an act of such exposure; the act of practicing or behaving in such a manner as to attract attention to oneself. Scening involving the display of public / private exhibitionism in order to exert control and / or humiliation. NOTE: In many countries, this form of play, is illegal and will get you arrested if caught by law enforcement.
Eye Contact Restrictions - Restricting one's submissive from any eye contact with the Dominant (i.e., forcing submissive to look away / look down). Similar to military boot camps. Control is enforced by the Dominant by refusing eye contact.
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F
Face Slapping - Involves play where a moderate amount of slapping of the face is used for humiliation / control. This play can be dangerous if an eye is struck, etc.
Fantasy Abandonment - Play which involves the fantasy of abandonment. Possibly leaving the submissive in a deserted area or public area for a short period of time to exert control and punishment.
Fear - Incorporating fear into scenes by using the submissive's own fears as an outline for play. Note: This type of play can become quite emotional for the submissive, so take extreme care when performing this type of play, and aftercare is important again
Flame Play - Play which involves the use of fire in scening. It should be noted here that using any type of fire / flame during scening is quite dangerous and could result in permanent scarring / burning of the body. Use extreme care when using fire in scenes, as this is extremely dangerous and not to be done by a novice.
Flogger - (See also: Strapping , Whipping ) A whip device usually with many "tails". Used on buttocks or back, generally to make nerve sensations greater. Can be used for play or punishment. This form of play is not for the novice, and can be dangerous.
Flogging horse - A device used to secure one on this bench-like, padded, sawhorse. Usually made waist height, with the use of tethers attached to wall or floor to secure the submissive. A well designed horse will allow open spread usage of the submissive when mounted properly upon.
Food Play - Where the Dominant controls amount and type of food allowed to be consumed by the submissive. This includes liquid intake as well.
Foot Worship - (See also: Boot Worship , High Heels , Homage , Licking ) The practice of play involving a fetish for feet. Commonly used for domination and humiliation practices (i.e., licking / cleaning of the Dominant's feet).
Forced Dressing - Forcing the submissive to dress however the Dominant sees fit, whether publicly or privately. Used generally for humiliation.
Forced Servitude - A form of play involving the submissive acting as a servant / maid to the Dominant. May be played out in public or in private as a form of humiliation.
Forced Smoking - Forcing the submissive to smoke (usually cigarettes); however, other various types of smoking are used in heavy S/m play.
Full-Head Hoods - (See also: Blindfolds ) A flexible covering for the head and sometimes neck. These come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures. Worn to prevent the sense of sight for erotic purposes.
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G
Gags - To restrict the use of the mouth by inserting a gag, in various textures (i.e., cloth, leather, ball gag, etc.). When using gags, it is important to remember that these only be worn for short periods of time. This form of play can be dangerous.
Gas Mask - A mask worn on the face connected to a chemical air filter and used to protect the face and lungs from toxic gases. Used mostly in heavy S/m scening.
Gates of Hell - A type of cock ring worn around the base of the testicles and penis to restrict blood flow to the penis during erotic scening. Specially designed, this type of cock ring is usually made of metal and has several rings attached together, ranging from the largest at the base and going smaller toward the tip.
Given Away - Where a Dominant releases a sub to another Dominant, without exchange of favors.
Gun Play - Scenes involving the use of firearms. It should be noted here: Gun Play is a dangerous form of play and should not be entered into lightly. Serious consequences could occur from such play and it is not recommended, It is also considered illegal.
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H
Hairbrush Spanking - Play which involves the use of a hairbrush to inflict pain on the buttocks. Commonly used in "naughty boy / girl" scenes for punishment.
Hair Pulling - Pulling of one's hair for the purpose of pain / humiliation. Used often in heavy scening.
Harem - To have more than one submissive in a scene or in daily life (i.e., the Dominant has a "harem" of women / men). A common occurrence in the Mormon religion, and in polyamorous relationships.
Harness - Bondage apparatus consisting of a network of straps designed to form a web over a large area of the body or head. Well-known leather body harness for wearing around the upper torso. Harnesses can be constructed from a variety of materials. Some harnesses built properly are used in suspension.
High Heels - (See also: Boot Worship , Foot Worship ) Along with boots, these are the most fetished items around. They combine the discomfort and pain of wearing them with the damage they can inflict when used as weapons. Some scenes may involve wearing, licking, cleaning, etc. See also “Boot worship”
Homage - (See also: Boot Worship , Foot Worship, Cock Worship ) Term meaning to pay respects to; homage; honor. A ceremony involving the submissive "honoring" the Dominant in some way - public or private. Could also mean paying "homage" to the penis / vagina, feet, breasts, etc., by worship.
Hot Oils - (See also: Aromas , Hot Wax ) The use of warmed oils for massaging or various other uses for erotic type play. Be careful of oil temperature before applying to another's skin, test on Your own forearm first. This form of play can be dangerous.
Hot Wax - (See also: Hot Oils , Waxing ) The process of using hot wax in scening. The wax most commonly used are candles and can be used on various parts of the body for stimulation. Note: Some types of wax, beeswax for instance, have a tendency to become extremely hot during burning and should always be used carefully to prevent permanent burning / scarring of the skin. Note: not for the novice, as this form of play is extremely dangerous.
Humiliation - To humiliate the submissive by requiring them to perform things they normally would not do, most commonly in public (i.e., wearing revealing clothing; playing out puppy, boy / girl scenes, etc.).
Hypnotism - To place someone in a trance-type state, and offer suggestions into certain types of behavior. Safety note: This form of play is not for the novice.
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I
Ice Play - ice used on body areas for desensitization of senses or nerves.
Immobilization - (See also: Bondage , Intricate Japanese Rope Bondage , Mummification , Shibari ) Any form of bondage technically immobilizes someone; however, this term is usually used for extreme forms of bondage where the submissive literally cannot move a muscle. Not recommended for long periods of time, and is dangerous.
Infantilism - Scening where the submissive assumes the role of a child / infant and is treated as such (i.e., diaper wearing, spankings, standing in corner, etc.).
Initiation Rites - A *Term* meaning the rites, ceremonies, and / or ordeals by which an individual is made a member of a house or society. Example: College initiations ("hell week"). More commonly known as "beat-in" or "earning letters", such as pain slut.
Intricate (Japanese) Rope Bondage - (See also: Bondage , Immobilization , Shibari ) A very complex form of bondage that is also quite beautiful to not only see but witness being performed. The submissive is also bonded in such a way as to allow easy access / removal of the device at any time.
Interrogations - Term meaning question, systematically and formally. Commonly performed in "police interrogations"; police-type scening. Commonly used for humiliation.
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K
Kneeling - To be used as a form of "respect" toward the Dominant. Making the submissive kneel when the Dominant enters the room, during scening, in public, etc. A punishment form of kneeling is where the submissive is kneeling in a different position then for *offering* herself.
Knife Play - (See also: Abrasion , Branding , Castration Fantasy , Cutting ) Cutting the surface of the skin with sharp objects, generally a knife, for the thrill, sensation, or pain. To also create decorative scars. The same basic precautions apply as with other types of blood play.
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L
Leather - Material made from the cured skin of animals. Wearing leather is a popular fetish. Leather, especially the wearing of black leather gives the wearer a certain sense of power and is commonly worn in the BDSM scene by the Dominant. Used for making floggers. whips, etc
Licking - Play involving "licking."
Lingerie - Women's intimate apparel. Lace bodices, stockings, bras, panties, etc.
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M
Manacles / Irons - (See also: Bondage ) Metal rings joined by a chain to restrain the wrist or ankles.
Massage - Using the hands (generally) to massage areas of the body. Possibly giving a massage to "warm up" before play.
Mentor - One who assists another in study. Usually a well-versed Dominant helping a submissive understand the lifestyle and their role in it. A Mentor guides another to achieve knowledge, not a teacher.
Modeling - Usually used for pictures, where one is placed in positions for best appearance.
Mouth Bits - A type of mouthpiece, generally used on horses and ponies, that is inserted into the mouth and is used to bite down on. Used typically during pony girl / boy play scenes.
Mummification - (See also: Bondage , Immobilization , Sleep Sack ) A specialized kind of bondage in which the whole body, including the head, if a breathing tube is used, is wrapped tightly to prevent any type of mobilization. Common types of materials are saran wrap, gaffa tape, or cloth or latex bandages. This form of play is dangerous , and should always have extra help around in case of an emergency.
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N
Nipple Clamps - (See also: Clothespins ) Clamp-type devices placed on the nipples during play to stimulate and stop blood flow to the nipple. One of the general household items to be used are clothespins. Care should be exercised to be sure the material used in clamp, does not stick to the skin, as tearing can occur.
Nipple Rings - A ring that is worn through the nipple. Piercing of the nipple and inserting a ring, similar to nose piercing. This type of piercing stimulates the nipple. Should be done by a professional.
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O
Orgasm - Intense excitement resulting in an explosive discharge of neuromuscular tensions at the height of arousal that is usually accompanied by the ejaculation of semen by the male and by vaginal contractions in the woman.
Orgasm Control - When one is forced to release or hold their body's desires to orgasm. Can be used in play or punishment.
Outdoor Scenes - Scenes involving the great outdoors! Any scene where the couple is outside during scening. Some activities are illegal.
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P
Pain - In broad terms, pain is the body's warning that something is wrong; however, our pain responses are very complex and it is very easy to produce the effect of pain without doing any real harm to the body. The "pain threshold" at which a stimulus crosses the boundary between intense sensation and pain is a gray area in terms of our perception. BDSM is associated in most people's minds with potentially painful activities, sometimes referred to as "pain games". It is true; however, that some people actually enjoy or at least get some satisfaction out of the intense physical sensation. Some of the satisfaction may be attributed to the release of body chemicals also known as "endorphins". Most player's interests are a mixture of physical aspects and the psychological dynamics of Domination and submission, and some play with hardly any physical pain at all. Those for whom the interest in pain is predominant are sometimes referred to sadists and masochists rather than Dominants and submissives. After care is needed, and monitoring the one receiving pain, is mandatory. Not for the novice for play.
Pony gear - This type of gear includes hoods, bits for mouth, bridles, straps, harnesses, and saddles. Some use hoof shoes as well. These are used to “train” a submissive to be used for work, as a pony. This can be very dangerous as joints, limbs or back maybe damaged. Not for the novice.
Pony Slave - Scenes involving the submissive being dressed or made up as to portray a "pony". Scenes might include mouth bits, harnesses, saddles, riding crops, etc. Note: Riding your pony can cause serious damage to their backs, hips, joints.
Prison Scening - Acting out a scene involving some type of prison scene. The use of a *cell* is for punishment and humiliation.
Public Exposure - Play which involves exposing oneself in public (i.e., flashing). Used for control / humiliation purposes.
Punishment - Scenes where the Dominant "punishes" the submissive for "bad or unruly" behavior. Often performed in little boy / girl scenes which may involve spankings, time-outs, etc.
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R
Rack - A table-like device which is fitted with pulling or stretching capabilities. Some racks incorporate pulleys, winches or wheels for pulling one in opposing directions. Paddles or whips are generally used on the person on a rack.
Religious Scene - A form of play where the submissive is usually dressed in nun's or clerical attire.
Riding Crop - A short whip-type instrument made of leather with a "loop" at the end which is intended for use on horses. May be used in scenes involving pony boy / girl type play. Riding crops are used to administer punishment, as well.
Rope bondage - There are many styles of rope work from simple to very intricate. study of knots is important to anyone wishing to attempt this play. This form of play can be very dangerous if blood flow is disrupted. Not for the novice.
Rubber / Latex Clothing - (See also: Spandex ) Besides leather, this type of clothing is the next best thing. One example may be a rubber hood. Some bondage items are made out of latex sheeting, and as with leather, black seems to be the most popular color by far.
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S
Saint Andrews Cross - This is a cross made in an X formation. It is generally angled and self-supporting. Some are suspended from ceilings, or mounted directly to a wall. The cross has leather restraints for arms, legs and body, Some have hooks along the edges for a person to be “laced” to the cross. Used for play or punishment can be administered while attached to the cross.
Saran Wrap - (See also: Mummification ) Plastic wrapping used most commonly to wrap leftover food. In BDSM play, used most likely in "bondage" scenes. This form of play can be dangerous.
Scratching - Scratching the body with the fingernails or another instrument for mild pain. Note: Safety precautions should be observed as deep scratching may lead to bleeding of the skin. Care should be exercised in preventing infection.
Sensory Deprivation - Play which involves "depriving" the submissive of certain sensory perceptions. May include blindfolds, bondage, gags, etc.
Shibari - (See also: Bondage , Intricate Japanese Rope Bondage ) The art of Intricate Japanese Rope Bondage. Bondage patterns are intricate, and artistically pleasing.
Slave - A totally subordinate person who needs total direction in all aspects of their life. To be owned, to serve, without question, and who questions nothing they are told.
Sleep Sack - (See also: Mummification ) Refers to a bag in which the body is wrapped in a sleeping bag type contraption with ropes or straps. An intense form of "bondage". This form of play can be dangerous .
Slings - Slings are made in many designs and shapes. This form of suspension causes fatigue rather quickly, so after-care should be taken as well as care during such use. Not for the novice.
Spandex - (See also: Rubber / Latex Clothing ) A form-fitting, stretchy type material that clings to the body (i.e., most women's pantyhose are made of spandex). When worn can be quite comfortable and look extremely sexy when worn on "tight bodies".
Spanking - (See also: Beating ) involves striking someone with the palm of the hand or other object (i.e., paddle, hairbrush, pig slapper, riding crop, etc.) on the buttocks as a form of punishment / humiliation. Mild spanking can be very erotic and when done correctly can push the submissive into "subspace" releasing endorphins which in turn creates a sense of euphoria.
Spreader Bar - (See also: Bondage ) A bar type device used to "spread" apart arms / legs of the submissive. Bars can be made of common, inexpensive materials such as dowel rods, pvc pipe, broomsticks, etc.
Stocks - A type of bondage "furniture" based on the medieval form of stocks used for punishment. Stocks usually consist of two hinged pieces of wood with semi-circular holes which when locked together form a ring large enough for the head / neck and wrists to be placed inside.
Straight Jacket - (See also: Bondage ) A jacket type of garment meant to be worn "backwards", consisting of close-ended sleeves that are strapped crisscrossed around the back and tied or locked in place (i.e., Houdini used this garment to escape from frequently).
Strap-On - A fastening type strap most commonly used to hold a dildo in place.
Strapping - (See also: Flogger , Whipping ) A length of material, most commonly leather, used for striking the body.
Stretchers - Generally made of wooden dowel rods or metal tubing, having eyelets to secure a submissive's arms, legs apart for play. These are very portable, to use anywhere. Stretchers come in various lengths, usually 24 inches to 48 inches.
Subspace - A mental altered state in which a person can be taken to. Space is a form of hypnotism that can be self attained, or a Dominant can aid to obtain. Subspace can be utilized to convert pain to pleasure. After care is mandatory, as is constant monitoring. Not for the novice.
Submissive - One who gives freely of themselves for the pleasures of another. A subordinate with negotiated limits.
Suspension - An advanced form of bondage in which the whole body is "suspended" off the ground and hanging "free in space". Note: not for the novice, use of properly designed equipment is advised.
Swapping - The "swapping" of one's partner generally for play. Switching partners temporarily for play purposes.
Switch - One who "switches" between Dominant / submissive roles, i.e. from scene-to-scene or within a scene. Some switches may submit to one Dominant, and dominate others, etc.
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T
Table Play - A padded table, where the submissive is restrained for play. The table has many securing points to offer different positions for play or examination. Tables can be used as racks if outfitted accordingly.
Tattoo - (See also: Branding ) A permanent form of scarring to the body in the form of various types of pictures or drawings or names, etc. A permanent form of "marking the submissive" as property.
Teasing - The act of "teasing" to enhance play or pleasure. Teasing the partner in such a way as to stimulate pleasure.
TENS Unit - (See also: Electricity , Violet Wand ) Term meaning Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation unit. A machine designed to apply electrical impulses to the body at safe levels. Note: As with any type of electrical play , safety precautions should be observed as this form of play is very dangerous .
Thigh Cuffs - (See also: Cuffs ) A simple belt around the waist with connectors around it to restrict the submissive's movement of arms and legs.
Thumb Cuffs - (See also: Cuffs ) Restraining devices used for restraint by the thumbs.
Ticklers - These are 16 to 18 inch rods with a tiny *flogger* attached on the end. Great for small areas where precision impacts are desired. Other ticklers include feathers, sandpaper, etc.
Tickling - Tickling the body to induce laughter. Often used in age play scenes.
Trainer - A Dominant who helps submissives understand the aspects of the lifestyle. Study and play sessions are the normal negotiations.
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U
Uniform - Play which involves the submissive wearing a "uniform". Such uniforms could include cheerleader uniform, maid uniform, etc. Commonly used in role-playing scenes.
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V
Violet Wand - (See also: Electricity , TENS Unit ) A device used commonly in electrical type play which discharges radio energy when, which touched to the body produces electrical sparks. The sensation is similar to "static cling" charges. Using electricity in BDSM play seems a scary notion to most people, but it can easily be made safe provided two simple rules are followed: only use devices powered by low-voltage batteries, and certainly no main-powered appliances; and avoid placing any contacts above the waist (including the hands or arms) as even small currents in the heart or brain can disrupt those organs' delicate electrical activity with serious consequences. This form of play is dangerous , and not for the novice.
Voyeurism - Term meaning the act of watching, peeping. In BDSM play, means to watch someone engage in other forms of play.
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W
Water Torture - A form of "torture" involving water. After care is extremely important. Example: Laying the submissive face up while dripping water on the forehead for extended periods of time. Derived from the Chinese (i.e., Chinese Water Torture).
Waxing - (See also: Hot Wax ) Using warmed wax as a form of sensation. Common areas of waxing are the buttocks, breast area, back, etc. The process of using hot wax in scening. The wax most commonly used are candles. Note: Some types of wax, beeswax for instance, have a tendency to become extremely hot during burning and should always be done carefully to prevent permanent burning/scarring of the skin.
Whipping - (See also: Caning , Flogger , Strapping ) A device consisting of a long, flexible striking surface. Whipping the body with a whip type device as a form of punishment.
Whipping Post - Designs vary according to builder, but the principle is to have a tall post with tethers that hang down, to attach a person from their wrists. Used for positioning a submissive for ease of whipping. Some Dominants use the “whipping post” for punishment only, and never for play.