BDSM
Also known as bondage and disciplinedominance and submissionkink
BDSM is an umbrella term for consensual practices involving bondage, dominance and submission, and related dynamics — built entirely on trust, negotiation, and safewords.
The gist
BDSM bundles several related interests — bondage, discipline, dominance/submission, and sensation play — under one name. At its core it's about a consensual, negotiated exchange of control. Communication, clear limits, safewords, and aftercare aren't optional extras here; they're the foundation that makes it safe and enjoyable.
Related
Kink
Kink is an umbrella term for consensual intimate interests outside the conventional — a normal part of many people's sexuality that thrives on trust and communication.
Safeword
A safeword is an agreed-upon word or signal that immediately pauses or stops activity — a clear, unambiguous way to communicate limits in the moment.
Aftercare
Aftercare is the attentive care partners give each other after intimacy — cuddling, reassurance, water, warmth — to reconnect and come down gently.