Our Definition
a compounded acronym which stands for “Bondage and Discipline” (B&D), “Dominance and Submission” (D/s), and “Sadism and Masochism” (S&M).
Often used as an umbrella label for the kink community, though many people do not participate in all of the practices included in the acronym. It can also be used by those who primarily engage with other non-normative lifestyle or sexual practices not included in the acronym.
Common Practices & Experiences
Everyone is different! You'll see this repeated throughout our website and glossary. There is no one way to engage in BDSM. The Glossary itself serves as a more comprehensive list of concepts associated with BDSM
Common practices include, but certainly aren't limited to:
- Bondage (rope and leather being common forms)
- Impact play
- Negotiations
- Power Exchange
- Sensation Play
- Rules and/or Rituals
- Protocols
- Role-play
- Consequences/Punishments
- Safe words
