Glossary term

Safeword

Also known as safe wordstop wordsignal

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.

The gist

A safeword is a pre-agreed cue that means 'slow down' or 'stop now,' chosen so it won't be confused with anything said in the heat of the moment. Many couples use a simple traffic-light system — green, yellow, red. For moments when speaking is difficult, a non-verbal signal serves the same purpose. Honoring it instantly is what makes exploration safe.

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