Quick Definitions
Within the Kink & BDSM Lifestyle, there are some commonly heard & used terms; here is our interpretation of a few foundational ones:
TPE
Total Power Exchange:
A dynamic in which one person consensually relinquishes control over every aspect of their life to another individual or individuals.
TPE
Total Power Exchange:
A dynamic in which one person consensually relinquishes control over every aspect of their life to another individual or individuals.
24/7
Describes a power exchange that exists continuously, rather than being limited to scenes or designated timeframes.
The "/" Slash
The slash symbol is widely used to denote the power dynamic between individuals in a relationship or scene:
e.g., Top/bottom, Master/slave, Owner/property.
The left side of the slash typically represents the dominant or leading role, while the right side represents the submissive or responsive role. It symbolizes the relational polarity within the dynamic.
O/p
Owner/property
A relationship dynamic in which one person assumes full responsibility and ownership over another, with the other consenting to become their property.
This often involves the property surrendering a significant level of control, though the specifics can vary widely depending on the agreement between individuals.
Top
The active or guiding person responsible for initiating and carrying out physical play and/or power exchange activities during a scene.
Traditionally, expectations of a Top are limited to their ability to deliver the agreed-upon activities safely and skillfully.
Additional expectations of a Top:
⋅ They are trustworthy and foster mutual trust.
⋅ They maintain space for open, honest communication.
⋅ They remain attuned to the emotional and physical states of their partner(s).
⋅ They prepare mentally, emotionally, and practically for each interaction.
⋅ They seek ongoing education and personal growth.
Bottom
The person who receives physical play and/or participates in a scene from a responsive or receptive position.
Traditionally, the expectations of a Bottom are centered around consent, negotiation, and the ability to receive the agreed-upon actions.
Additional expectations of a Bottom:
⋅ They are trustworthy and foster mutual trust.
⋅ They communicate their needs, boundaries, desires, and fears clearly and respectfully.
⋅ They remain self-aware and responsible for their own emotional regulation.
⋅ They advocate for aftercare that suits their needs.
⋅ They participate in negotiation with honesty and integrity.
ct.
Dominant
Dom | The “D” in the slash
The person who assumes the guiding or directive role in a BDSM or power exchange dynamic, often with authority that extends beyond the scene itself.
Doms are entrusted with broader, more enduring authority than Tops, and their responsibilities often extend into the emotional, psychological, and lifestyle realms of the dynamic.
Additional expectations of a Dominant:
⋅ They are trustworthy and lead with integrity.
⋅ They lead by example, embodying the values they expect.
⋅ They create and nurture safe spaces for vulnerability and expression.
⋅ They take responsibility for their power and its ethical use.
⋅ They actively invest in the well-being, growth, and fulfillment of their submissive(s).
Submissive
Sub | The “s” in the slash
The person who consents to receive guidance, structure, or authority from another, and often participates in BDSM scenes or ongoing power exchange dynamics.
Subs may take on emotional, logistical, or relational responsibilities in service to the dynamic, with expectations that typically extend beyond those of a Bottom.
Additional expectations of a Submissive:
⋅ They are trustworthy and foster mutual trust.
⋅ They communicate openly, especially about needs, limits, and emotions.
⋅ They practice self-awareness and self-care, even in submission.
⋅ They offer service with intention, pride, and personal integrity.
⋅ They take ownership of their growth and accountability within the dynamic.
Master
The “M” in the slash
The person who holds near-complete authority and responsibility in a Master/slave (M/s) dynamic.
Masters may design and dictate nearly all aspects of daily life for their slave(s), within the limits of negotiated consent. A slave may retain only one fundamental choice: to serve—or to leave.
Additional expectations of a Master:
⋅ They are trustworthy and deeply committed to ethical authority.
⋅ They lead by example and demonstrate emotional maturity.
⋅ They cultivate structure, consistency, and care in their dynamic.
⋅ They prioritize the growth, development, and flourishing of their slave(s).
⋅ They continuously reflect on their use of power and how it serves all involved.
Slave
The “s” in the slash
The person who consents to live in full or near-full submission within a Master/slave dynamic.
A slave’s obedience, servitude, and dedication are often expected to be unconditional within the terms of their agreement. Like the Master, they carry great responsibility for the health of the dynamic.
Additional expectations of a Slave:
⋅ They are trustworthy and uphold their commitments.
⋅ They communicate honestly, including about struggles and needs.
⋅ They maintain integrity in their service, even while apart from their Master.
⋅ They strive to understand and embody the values of the dynamic.
⋅ They practice obedience and autonomy in harmony—taking pride in both.
Purposeful Kink Experiences
Twin Hearts
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