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 See also 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.

Anal Beads – A set of strung beads used to insert into the anus to stimulate the anal nerves as foreplay or to cause orgasm.

Anal Play – This is generally play where the anus may be penetrated with either beads, ice, dildos, anal plugs, penis, or fist. Rimming the anus with a finger or toys stimulates the nerves which can create a more intense orgasm. Inserting and playing with one’s prostrate gland (males) will cause increased orgasm.

Anal Plug – (See also: Dildo, Vibrator ) A specially designed dildo for use in the anus that is shaped in a way so that it will not “fall out”. Most commonly inserted and left in the anus for a given amount of time. Also used for “ass training” to stretch out the anus and get one accustomed to having something in their ass.

Anal Sex – (See also: Rimming ) Any sexual activity involving the anus. Examples are; rimming (oral), Butt / Anal Plugs, Dildos, and penile penetration.

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/ponies are also popular i.e. puppy – pony play. The ‘animal’ may imitate animal behavior (and may go as deep as creating oneself as that animal in their mind), wear items such as collars, leads, bridles and so on, or carry out tasks associated with animal behavior.

Arm / Leg Sleeves (often called arm binders) – 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. These types of play are popular in the gay and rave scenes, and often used in an S/m context. There are some dangers associated with their use.

Asphyxiation – (See also Breath Control , Choking ) Commonly referred to as “breath control”. Refers to play involving control or restriction of air to the lungs and / or blood (oxygen) to the brain. Asphyxia includes hands over nose and mouth, choking, smothering, air tight hoods [may include tube(s)], plastics bags, sheet latex, strangling which is compression of the wind pipe – trachea to reduce or stop the flow of air into the lungs, ‘sleeper hold’ which reduces / stops blood flow (oxygen) to the brain as well as discharge of carbon dioxide via the blood stream back to the lungs; hanging where the body is suspended by the neck These actions are often used to create more intense orgasm. Remember, these activities can be and are extremely dangerous. Comma, brain damage even death is often the end result.

Auctions, often for Charity – (See also: Competitions) usually involves a person, Dominant or submissive, willing to be part of a scene / play is ‘sold’ to the highest bidder as a charitable fund raiser. Even though the ‘sale’ is voluntary and the high bidder does not ‘own’ the person, his activity may be illegal in some locals / countries..

B

Ball Stretching – Play which involves any type of scrotal constraint / attachment involving weights or other means of pulling on the testicles and scrotum in order to provide a variety of sensations including discomfort and pain.

Bastinado – Involves using an object to strike (beat) the bottom of the feet. This not only can be dangerous (cause permanent damage), but is (can be) very painful.

Bathroom Use Control – (See also: Catheterization , Enemas ) Scenes where the Dominant restricts or takes control over the submissive’s bodily functions through the use of techniques such as catheterization, enemas, diapers, rubber pants, and possibly golden showers. Examples in play: House training a puppy, age play, and golden shower play.

Bestiality – Play which incorporates the use of animals for sexual pleasure. Not to be confused with animal role playing. This form of play can be very dangerous.

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.

Being Serviced (sexually) – Play which involves just that. The Dominant instructing the submissive to do exactly how He / She wants the submissive to perform sexually.

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 for erotic reasons 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 a variety of methods from burning with a hot metal object (as practiced on livestock but with much less dependable results, not to mention it is intensely painful and can result in serious 3rd degree burns). Cauterizing pens can be used with more dependable results and less risk of serious injury – infection etc. Seen by some as “body art”. Can also use temporary tattoos or markers. Used by Dominants to mark their property. Branding is 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 for erotic reasons 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 woman’s / submissive’s chest area using a variety of items which include: floggers, whips, cat tails, paddles, for erotic purposes.

Brown Showers (Scat) – This fetish involves human (or animal) feces. Although this type of play is said to be ‘safe’ if done correctly, the degree of safety is debatable and is not recommended for those faint of heart!

Bruising – A condition which may occur as a result of pinching or striking. Many take pride in and enjoy being bruised. Those who bruise easily, heal slowly, and/or with other medical conditions should avoid being bruised.

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: Bastinado, Beating , Whipping ) Caning – Often people think canes are made of bamboo though bamboo is prone to splintering so rattan is preferred. Many feel caning produces the most pain. Care should be used since welts from caning are slow to rise and blood can be accidentally drawn if not constantly and carefully monitored. Caning should be limited to the fleshy part of the buttocks, upper thighs and nowhere else on the body. Caning if done wrong can be dangerous causing permanent damage, and is not for the novice.

Castration Fantasy – (See also: Cutting , Knife Play ) There has been much confusion as to the actual meaning of this term. This refers to removal of the testicles; however, some people use it for the removal of any/all sexual organs of either sex. The removal of the testicles is sometimes referred to as Emasculation and a man who has had his testicles removed is referred to as a eunuch. This procedure causes permanent and significant changes to the body. Castration fantasies are actually quite common among the heavy S/m players and are played out in scenes involving cock and ball torture (CBT), permanent and play piercing, and even genital shaving. However, few people actually choose to make this fantasy a reality. It should be noted here that this is a serious surgical procedure and not something someone can teach themselves to do safely. This form of play is very dangerous.

Catheterization – (See also: Bathroom Use Control , Enemas , Urethral Play ) A flexible tube used in medical procedures generally inserted into the area controlled by the bladder. This procedure is most often used for “control” scenes.

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.

Chamber-Pot Use – Scenes involving the use of the toilet for humiliation and / or control. Generally used for medical scenes.

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.

Chores (Domestic Service) – (See also: Housework) Scenes where the Dominant requires the submissive to perform chores and / or domestic service in either sexually pleasing clothing (i.e., maid outfits) or naked.

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. You may elect to dip/coat the edges of the tip in latex to prevent this.

Cock & Ball Torture – any form of restraint or orgasm control to a male’s genitals. Can be used for play or punishment. Not for the novice, as this can be dangerous.

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.

Competitions (With Other Subs) – (See also: Auctioned for Charity ) Scenes involving competitive-type sports or play with other submissives.

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.

Crotch Torture – Any form of torture to the male or female genital area.

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.

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.

Dilation – The term used when a woman’s cervix is dilated (opened) to aid in childbirth. In BDSM play dilation occurs when a speculum (pelvic exam device) is used to open the cervix for medical scening. Safety Note: Care should be exercised and previous study should be done, before attempting this play. This form of play is dangerous.

Dildo – (See also: Anal Plug, Vibrator ) From the French term meaning “I please myself). A phallic-shaped device designed for insertion into the body. Early versions were made of stuffed animal gut, leather, or ceramics; however, today they are most commonly crafted of molded latex. They may be hand-held, strapped on with harnesses to allow women to wear, or permanently placed on other devices to ensure stability during use. Hygiene demands that dildos not be shared with others, or condoms be placed on dildos to prevent the spread of STD’s.

Dominant – The one in charge, or the top who oversees and controls. The responsible One. A Dominant should be well versed in the areas of play to be explored, seek to be educated in those areas of a playlist not familiar with before engaging in play, be knowledgeable of health risks and dangers and take appropriate safety precautions.

Double Penetration – Play involving the penetration of two or more bodily orifices with various types of devices and / or genitalia, (i.e., penetration of the mouth / rectum / vagina, etc.)

E

Electricity – (See also: TENS Unit, Violet Wand ) Using electricity in BDSM play seems a scary notion to most people, but it can be made safer by adhering to several rules:

a) Only use devices designed and intended for use on the human body, especially AVOID training shock collars, home made, improvised such as ‘stereo stim’, and modified devices.

b) Irrespective of what you see on web sites and/or hear from others, avoid placing contacts/electrodes above the waist especially on both hands, arms, breasts etc..

c) When using AC powered (utility – mains) devices be SURE the wiring (hot, neutral, and ground [if one]) is correct and the cord is in GOOD condition. Always avoid accidental grounding which could result in shock even electrocution.

d) Read the book, Juice written by Uncle Abdul. It discusses electrical play There also is a 9 page detailed booklet written by Lady Robin available at: http://www.thebrc.net/articles/MISC_CONTRIBUTIONS/LadyRobin-SaferE-Stim.html Watch for and attend e-stim / electric play demos – workshops whenever possible.

Popular devices include “TENS” units designed for the relief of muscle and back pain; muscle stimulation devices (EMS), several different e-stim power boxes, and “Violet Wands” (VW) use a radio frequency high voltage, very low current discharge. Many people use VWs above the waist as long as the eyes are avoided but because VWs are powered by household voltage, there always is a risk of malfunction, accidental grounding, etc.. All forms of e-stim – electrical play can be dangerous.

Enemas – (See also: Bathroom Use Control , Catheterization ) A thorough anal cleaning involving a water bottle and tube. Most frequently used in medical scening although might also be used for control scenes as well.

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