Sex and Sexuality Glossary:
It is important to note that the definitions and meanings of sexual terms and references in this Sex and Sexuality Glossary can vary over time and differ between individuals. It is also important to remember that a person’s sexual behavior should not be used to define their sexual or gender identity, and it is essential to respect the terms that individuals use to describe themselves. It is essential to avoid labeling or imposing one’s own understandings of these terms on others.
Afterglow:
The positive feelings and emotions that a person experiences after engaging in sexual activity.
Agender:
Referring to a person who does not identify with any gender or who identifies as having no gender.
Age Play Infantilism, Diapers:
A form of role-playing in which one person pretends to be younger than they are, often involving dressing and behaving like a baby or child. This can include wearing diapers and being treated as an infant. While age play is a controversial topic and may be viewed as inappropriate by some, for others it can be a healthy or healing outlet for exploring different roles and feelings.
Ally:
A person who supports the human, civil, and sexual rights of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Alloromantic:
A person who experiences romantic attraction to others. This term is often used to distinguish between romantic and non-romantic attraction.
Androgynous:
Referring to a person who exhibits both masculine and feminine traits or who expresses their gender in a non-traditional way. This can include appearance, behavior, and mannerisms that are not typically associated with one gender or the other.
Anti-psychiatry (LGBT):
The anti-psychiatry movement, which emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, was critical of the psychiatric profession and its treatment of mental health conditions. The gay rights or gay liberation movement was closely aligned with the anti-psychiatry movement, as both sought to challenge oppression and stigma. The gay liberation movement, in particular, fought to have homosexuality removed from the American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, and some have argued that the success of this effort was due in part to the influence of the anti-psychiatry movement. However, there has been debate over the extent to which the two movements were connected, and some have argued that the decision by the APA to remove homosexuality from its manual was based on scientific evidence rather than political pressure.
Aromantic:
A person who does not experience romantic attraction to others. Aromantics may be satisfied with non-romantic relationships such as friendships and may or may not experience sexual attraction. Aromantics may also experience “squishes,” which are similar to romantic crushes but are platonic in nature. Aromantics may be in “queerplatonic” relationships, which are relationships that are more than friendships but less than romantic relationships. An alloromantic is someone who does not identify as aromantic.
Autofellatio:
The act of a man performing oral sex on himself by putting his penis in his mouth.
Anal Sex:
A sexual act involving the anus, rectum, and/or anal cavity, typically involving the insertion of the penis into the rectum.
Androgyny:
A gender expression that cannot be classified as strictly masculine or feminine.
Asexual:
A person who does not experience sexual attraction. Asexuality is an intrinsic part of a person’s identity and is not a choice, like celibacy.
Asphyxiaphilia:
The practice of intentionally reducing the oxygen supply to the brain during sexual activity for the purpose of enhancing pleasure from orgasm. This can be done with or without a partner and is also known as autoerotic asphyxiation or AEA.
Avoidant Personality Disorder:
A mental health condition characterized by a lifelong pattern of shyness, feelings of inadequacy, and sensitivity to rejection. The cause of this disorder is unknown, but it may be related to genes or a physical illness that changed a person’s appearance. People with avoidant personality disorder have difficulty forming relationships due to their fear of rejection and may choose loneliness over the risk of connecting with others. This disorder affects about 1% of the population.
Berdache:
A term used in some North American Indigenous communities to refer to a person who is biologically male but adopts the clothing, occupations, and behaviors of the opposite gender.
Biological sex:
The classification of a person’s body as male or female based on physical characteristics such as genitalia, hormones, and chromosomes.
Bi-gendered:
A person who identifies with both masculinity and femininity and may live part-time as each gender. This term is also used to describe cross-dressers.
Bisexual:
A person who engages in sexual behavior with people of both the same and opposite gender. Bisexuality is now recognized as a valid, independent sexual identity and is no longer solely seen as a phase of gay or lesbian development.
Biting:
The act of biting or lightly scratching during sexual activity or foreplay. In some cases, biting can be a symptom of disorders such as Lesch-Nyhan syndrome.
Blueballs:
A painful, swollen feeling in the testicles that can occur when a man has an erection for an extended period without ejaculating.
Bukkake:
A pornographic genre in which multiple men ejaculate on the face of a woman.
Blindfolds:
A piece of cloth or other material used to cover a person’s eyes, often as a form of sexual enhancement or foreplay.
Bondage:
A sexual practice involving the restraint of a person for pleasure, often as part of BDSM activity. The paraphilia of being sexually aroused by bondage is known as vincilagnia.
Branding:
The act of using small, shaped pieces of metal that are heated to a high temperature to burn scars into a person’s skin as a form of sexual activity.
Breast/Nipple Torture:
A type of BDSM activity that involves inflicting pain on the breasts, nipples, and areolas for sexual pleasure. This can range from the use of clothespins on the nipples to more intense activities such as caning or amateur piercing.
Candle Wax:
A form of sexual play that involves the application of hot wax, usually from candles, to a person’s naked skin. This activity may be combined with other BDSM or sexual activities.
Cerebral narcissist:
A person who is obsessed with their own intelligence and perceived superiority and uses this to seek admiration and love from others. They may also be referred to as “know-it-alls” and prioritize their intellectual image over their physical health and appearance.
Chains:
A flexible material such as rope, leather, or metal links that can be used for restraint or control in BDSM activities. Chains are often used in conjunction with collars, body harnesses, or directly around a person’s neck, wrist, ankle, or genitals.
Chastity Devices:
Chastity devices, such as chastity belts, are used in BDSM play or in consensual relationships to prevent sexual intercourse or masturbation. These devices can be used on both males and females, and may be worn for sexual play or as a long-term method of preventing infidelity or masturbation.
Chinese balls:
Chinese balls, also known as Ben Wa balls or anal beads, are a sex toy consisting of several small balls attached in a series that are inserted through the anus into the rectum and then removed at varying speeds. Some people enjoy the pleasurable sensation they receive as the balls pass through the narrow sphincter of the anus.
Cisgender:
Cisgender is a term used to describe a person whose gender identity matches the biological sex they were assigned at birth. For example, a person who was assigned male at birth and identifies as a man would be considered cisgender.
Confinement:
Confinement or caging is a BDSM activity that involves enclosing a person in a cage or other enclosure for the purpose of restraint or control. This activity may involve the use of a physical cage, or it may involve the use of other types of restraints such as ropes or chains. It is important to ensure that the person being confined is able to move freely and escape if necessary, and to communicate with them about boundaries and limits.
Consent:
Consent is an essential aspect of BDSM and any form of sexual activity. It involves actively seeking and obtaining agreement from a partner before engaging in any activity, and respecting a partner’s boundaries and limits. It is important to communicate openly and honestly about what is and is not acceptable, and to respect a partner’s decisions about what they do and do not want to participate in.
Cross dressing:
Cross dressing refers to the act of wearing clothing that is traditionally associated with another gender within a particular society. Drag is a form of performance art that involves cross-dressing, typically in an exaggerated and theatrical manner. A drag queen is a male who performs as a female character, often in elaborate costumes, heavy makeup, and large wigs.
Dacryphilia:
Dacryphilia is a sexual fetish or arousal related to seeing tears in the eyes of a partner or seeing a partner cry. It is primarily associated with males.
Defilement:
Defilement is the act of making something dirty or polluted, or the state of being defiled. In a BDSM context, it may refer to the act of seeing a partner in a dirty or wet state, or to the act of making a partner dirty or wet.
Dependent personality disorder (DPD):
Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is a mental health condition characterized by an excessive need for attention and reassurance from others, as well as a fear of separation. People with DPD tend to display needy, passive, and clinging behavior, and may have difficulty making decisions without the advice and reassurance of others.
Depilation:
Depilation refers to the removal of hair from the skin’s surface. One common method of depilation is shaving.
Dildo:
A dildo is a non-vibrating device that is shaped and sized to resemble a human penis. Dildos can be used by both men and women for anal or vaginal penetration, and come in a range of sizes.
Discipline:
Discipline in BDSM refers to the use of rules and punishment as a way of controlling behavior within the BDSM dynamic. This can take the form of physical punishment, such as caning, or psychological punishment, such as public humiliation.
Dental Dam:
A dental dam is a thin, rectangular piece of latex or polyurethane that is used as a barrier during oral sex to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. It is typically used when performing oral sex on a woman.
Domination:
Domination refers to the act of taking control or power over people or things. In BDSM, domination refers to those who take on a superior or dominant role, while those who take on a subordinate or submissive role are known as submissives.
Drag King:
A drag king is a woman who identifies with and/or performs male social sex roles, but does not physically alter her body to do so. A drag queen is a man who identifies with and/or performs female social sex roles, but does not physically alter his body to do so.
Exhibitionism:
Exhibitionism, also known as flashing or apodysophilia, is the act of displaying naked parts of the body to another person with the intention of gaining their attention. This behaviour may be motivated by a desire for sexual gratification or may be a form of non-sexual expression.
Fetishism:
Fetishism involves a sexual attraction to non-living objects. This can take many forms, such as a sexual attraction to a particular material or type of clothing.
Fire play:
Fire play is a type of BDSM activity that involves lighting flammable substances, such as rubbing alcohol, on or very close to the skin. This type of play can be exciting, but it is also considered very dangerous and should only be done with caution and proper safety measures in place.
Fisting:
Fisting, also known as fist fucking, is a sexual activity that involves inserting the hand and forearm into the vagina or anus. It is typically done with the fingers held close together and slowly inserted into a well-lubricated orifice. Once insertion is complete, the fingers may be clenched into a fist or left straight.
Frotteurism:
Frotteurism is a sexual fetish involving the desire to touch and rub against a non-consenting person. This behavior is typically non-consensual and may be motivated by a desire for sexual gratification or a need for power and control.
Gang Bang:
A gang bang, also known as a gangbang, is a sexual activity in which one person, either a man or a woman, has sexual intercourse with multiple partners in turn. When a man has sex with several women, it is often referred to as a reverse gangbang.
Gay:
The term “gay” refers to a person who identifies as homosexual, meaning they are attracted to people of the same gender. This term is often used in urban communities and is typically applied to men, but it can also be used to refer to women.
Gay pride:
Gay pride, also known as pride, is the term used to describe celebrations that honor the gay community and commemorate the Stonewall riots. These celebrations often occur in the month of June and may include parades, parties, and other events.
Gender:
Gender is the classification of people based on their perceived masculine or feminine characteristics. This classification is often based on genitalia, and is typically referred to as a person’s biological sex. However, gender is a social construct, and different cultures have different definitions of what is considered masculine or feminine.
Gender Binary:
The gender binary is the idea that there are only two genders: male/man/masculine and female/woman/feminine. This is based on the sex assigned at birth, and it does not allow for the existence of gender identities or expressions that do not fit neatly into these categories. This concept is seen by some as limiting and problematic, as it does not allow for the full range of gender identities and expressions that exist.
Gender Conforming:
Gender conforming refers to a person whose gender expression aligns with cultural norms associated with their assigned gender at birth. For example, a gender conforming person who was assigned male at birth may exhibit traditionally masculine traits and behaviors. However, not all cisgender people (those whose gender identity aligns with their assigned gender at birth) are gender conforming, and not all transgender people (those whose gender identity differs from their assigned gender at birth) are gender nonconforming.
Gender Dysphoria:
Gender dysphoria is a medical diagnosis listed in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) that refers to the distress a person feels as a result of the sex and gender they were assigned at birth. This diagnosis is controversial within the transgender community, as some feel that it implies being transgender is a mental illness rather than a valid identity. However, a formal diagnosis of gender dysphoria is often required to access medical treatment in the United States.
Gender Expression:
Gender expression refers to the ways in which a person presents their gender to the world, including through personal style, clothing, hairstyle, makeup, jewelry, vocal inflection, and body language. Gender expression can be classified as masculine, feminine, or androgynous, and it may or may not align with a person’s gender identity.
Gender Fluid:
Gender fluid refers to a person whose gender identity or expression shifts between masculine and feminine or falls somewhere along this spectrum.
Gender Identity:
Gender identity is a person’s internal sense of their own gender, which may or may not align with their assigned gender at birth. It is a personal concept that can be different for each individual, and it can change over time. Gender identity is separate from a person’s biological sex and refers to how a person sees themselves in terms of being male, female, or something else.
Gender Identity Disorder:
Gender identity disorder, also known as gender dysphoria, is a medical diagnosis listed in the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) that refers to the distress a person feels as a result of the sex and gender they were assigned at birth. This diagnosis encompasses transsexualism, as well as gender identity disorder of childhood and gender identity disorder of adulthood.
Gender Marker:
A gender marker is a designation (male, female, or another) that appears on a person’s official documents, such as a birth certificate or driver’s license. For transgender people, the gender marker on their documents may not match their gender identity, unless they have legally changed it in a jurisdiction that allows for this.
Gender Nonconforming:
Gender nonconforming refers to a person whose gender expression is perceived as being inconsistent with cultural norms associated with their assigned gender at birth. This can include boys or men who are not considered “masculine enough,” or girls or women who are not considered “feminine enough.” Not all transgender people are gender nonconforming, and not all gender nonconforming people identify as transgender. Cisgender people (those whose gender identity aligns with their assigned gender at birth) can also be gender nonconforming. It is important to note that gender nonconformity is not the same as sexual orientation.
Genderqueer:
Genderqueer refers to a person whose gender identity is neither man nor woman, or falls outside of the traditional gender binary. They may identify as being between or beyond genders, or as a combination of genders.
Gender Variance:
Gender variance, also known as gender nonconformity, refers to behavior or gender expression that does not match the gender roles typically associated with a person’s assigned gender at birth. People who exhibit gender variance may be referred to as gender variant, gender non-conforming, gender diverse, or gender atypical.
Glory Hole:
A glory hole is a hole cut through a wall that allows anonymous sexual activity between people on either side of the wall.
Hair Pulling:
Hair pulling, also known as trichotillomania or TTM, is an impulse control disorder characterized by the repeated urge to pull out hair from the scalp, eyelashes, facial hair, nose hair, pubic hair, eyebrows, or other body hair. It is classified in the DSM-IV as an impulse control disorder that does not fit into another category.
Handcuffs:
Handcuffs and shackles are forms of physical restraint that are often used in BDSM and sexual bondage games. They involve using restraints such as handcuffs, shackles, straitjackets, ropes, straps, or other devices to render someone helpless or keep them in captivity.
Hermaphroditism:
Hermaphroditism is a rare form of intersexuality in which both ovarian and testicular tissue are present in the same or opposite gonads.
Heterosexism:
Heterosexism is the belief or assumption that everyone is heterosexual and that heterosexuality is superior to homosexuality. This can result in the invisibility or marginalization of people who do not fit into the heterosexual norm.
Heterosexual:
Heterosexual refers to someone who engages in opposite-sex sexual behavior.
Histrionic Personality Disorder:
Histrionic personality disorder is a mental health condition characterized by overly emotional and dramatic behavior that draws attention to oneself. This can affect a person’s social or romantic relationships and may cause them to be unable to cope with losses or failures.
Homophobia:
Homophobia refers to an irrational fear, hatred, or repulsion of homosexuality. It can manifest as prejudice, discrimination, or violence against people who are LGBTQ+ or perceived to be LGBTQ+.
Hijras:
Hijras are a religious group that is comprised of “biological men who wear female apparel and behave like women.” In the past, hijras would often undergo surgery to remove their penises and testicles, but this is not always the case today.
Homosexual:
Homosexual refers to someone who engages in same-sex sexual behavior. The term has clinical connotations that are associated with pathology, and it has historically been used in the context of illness and abnormal sexual behavior.
Humiliation:
Humiliation is the consensual use of psychological humiliation in a sexual context, in which one person derives arousal or erotic excitement from being humiliated or demeaned, or from humiliating another person. Humiliation can be verbal or physical and can be relatively private or public. It can involve a variety of activities, and it is the feelings derived from these activities that are sought, rather than the activity itself being sexual in nature.
Internalized Homophobia:
Internalized homophobia refers to the acceptance and internalization of homophobic cultural messages, stereotypes, and negative labels by a person who is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. This can lead to self-hatred and discrimination against one’s own LGBTQ+ identity.
Intersex:
Intersex refers to the condition of having genital, gonadal, or chromosomal characteristics that are neither all “female” nor all “male.” This means that an individual may have reproductive organs or genitalia that are not easily classified as either male or female. Intersex individuals may also be referred to as having differences of sex development (DSD).
Transgender:
Transgender refers to someone whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, someone who was assigned female at birth, but who identifies as male, may feel that their reproductive organs or genitals (such as their vagina) do not match their gender identity.
Klismaphilia:
Klismaphilia, also spelled Klysmaphilia, refers to the paraphilia of deriving sexual pleasure from enemas. Some providers in the sex industry offer enemas to cater to klismaphiliac desires, and there are many movies, magazines, and websites devoted specifically to this fetish. It is sometimes considered a form of anal masturbation.
Khush:
Khush is a term used to refer to an Asian lesbian or gay man.
Lactation:
Lactation refers to the production of milk in a woman’s breasts, and erotic lactation refers to the breastfeeding of an adult partner or the induction of lactation for primarily sexual or erotic reasons.
Latex fetishism:
Latex fetishism is the sexual attraction to people wearing latex clothing or to the clothing itself. Rubber fetishism is a related fetish that involves an attraction to rubber clothing or objects. People with a latex or rubber fetish may refer to themselves as “Rubberists” or “Gay Rubberists” may call themselves “Rubbermen.”
Leather Culture:
Leather culture is a subculture that involves a style of dress and an affiliation with BDSM practices. It is often associated with the LGBTQ+ community and can vary between different groups within the community. It is important to note that not all people who are affiliated with the leather subculture engage in BDSM practices, and not all BDSM practitioners wear leather culture apparel.
Lesbian:
Lesbian is a term that refers to a woman who is attracted to other women.
LGBTTQ+:
LGBTTQ+ is an acronym that stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two-spirited, and queer or questioning. The plus (+) at the end indicates that the acronym includes a range of identities beyond the ones listed and is meant to be inclusive of all identities.
Mahu:
Mahu is a traditional Tahitian term that refers to a biological male who takes on both the work and dress of a woman. Masochism is the sexual pleasure or gratification that comes from experiencing pain or suffering. It is often related to sadism, which refers to the pleasure or gratification of inflicting pain or suffering on others. Together, these practices are known as sadomasochism or S&M and are often associated with the BDSM community. It is important to note that these practices are typically consensual within the BDSM community.
Master/slave:
Master/slave or M/s relationships are a type of dominance/submission dynamic in which the dominant has complete authority over the submissive. Many practitioners of M/s believe that the owner/slave relationship is based on an emotional state of total power exchange (TPE). It is important to note that these relationships are entered into on a consensual basis and do not involve the non-consensual power dynamics of historical or modern slavery.
Masturbation:
Masturbation is a common and normal practice that involves sexually stimulating oneself, usually through the use of one’s hands or fingers, to achieve sexual pleasure and sometimes orgasm. It can be done alone or with a partner, and it does not require penetration or any specific sexual orientation.
MSM:
Men who have sex with other men (MSM) are men who engage in sexual activity with other men, but may not identify as gay, bisexual, or queer. This term is often used in public health research to distinguish between sexual behavior and identity.
Mutual Masturbation:
Mutual masturbation is a sexual activity where two or more people stimulate themselves or each other sexually, usually with their hands. This can be a consensual and enjoyable way to experience sexual pleasure and intimacy, and it does not require penetration or any specific sexual orientation.
Nadle:
Nadle is a term used by some North American First Nations communities to refer to people who are born with ambiguous genitalia and are assigned a gender status based on the type of work they do. Nadle people may dress as male or female depending on their role in the community and are free to switch back and forth whenever they choose. It is important to note that this is just one cultural perspective and that different communities and cultures may have different understandings and practices related to gender and sexual identity.
Non Binary:
Non binary is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of gender identities and expressions that do not fit within the traditional gender binary of male/man/masculine and female/woman/feminine. Nonbinary people may identify as agender (having no gender identity), bi-gender (experiencing multiple gender identities at different times or simultaneously), genderqueer (having a gender identity that falls outside of the traditional gender binary), genderfluid (experiencing a fluid or changing gender identity), or pangender (experiencing a wide range of gender identities).
Oral Sex:
Oral sex is a sexual activity that involves the use of the mouth, tongue, teeth, and throat to stimulate the genitalia of a partner. Cunnilingus refers to oral sex performed on a woman, while fellatio refers to oral sex performed on a man. Analingus refers to oral stimulation of the anus.
Outed:
Being “outed” refers to the act of someone making public the sexual orientation of someone else, usually without their consent. This can be done maliciously as a form of discrimination or as a means of controlling or manipulating someone’s behavior.
Paraphilia:
Paraphilia refers to recurring sexual fantasies, impulses, or behaviors that involve non-human objects or unconventional stimuli. Some examples of paraphilias include a fetish for a specific type of thing, fabric, design, or body part (such as legs, feet, nurses, doctors, or shoes).
Partialism:
Partialism refers to a sexual attraction or preference for one specific part of the body. This could be a particular body part such as the feet, hands, or buttocks, or it could be a specific body feature such as a particular hairstyle or facial feature. It is important to note that all forms of sexual expression and attraction are valid as long as they are consensual and do not cause harm to others.
Podophilia:
Podophilia, also known as foot fetishism, is a sexual interest in feet. It is a common form of fetish and refers to a sexual attraction to feet or footwear. People with a foot fetish may find pleasure in looking at, touching, or smelling feet or footwear, and they may also enjoy sexual activities that involve feet or footwear.
Pearl Necklace:
“Pearl necklace” is a slang term that refers to ejaculating on someone’s neck and upper chest, usually after receiving fellatio. This term is not commonly used and may be considered offensive or vulgar by some people.
Pronouns:
Pronouns are words that are used to refer to someone in place of their name. Some common pronouns include “he,” “she,” “they,” and “it.” People may use different pronouns to reflect their gender identity or expression, and it is important to respect the pronouns that someone uses to refer to themselves. Some people may use newly created nongendered pronouns such as “zie” or “per,” and it is best to ask which pronouns someone uses in order to show respect and to be more accurate when referring to them.
Pseudohermaphroditism:
Pseudohermaphroditism refers to a state in which an individual has unambiguous gonadal sex (i.e. they have either testes or ovaries), but their external genitalia are ambiguous. This can be the result of hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions, and it can cause confusion around the individual’s gender identity or sex assigned at birth. It is important to note that all forms of gender identity and expression are valid, and it is important to respect and support the gender identity of every individual.
Queer:
Queer is an umbrella term that is used by some people to describe their sexual and gender identity, particularly those who do not identify as heterosexual or cisgender. The term has a complex history, and it was originally used as a derogatory slur against LGBTQ+ people. Some people in the LGBTQ+ community have reclaimed the term as a way to express pride in their identity and to challenge the stigmatization of non-normative sexual and gender identities.
Queerplatonic:
A queerplatonic relationship is a close emotional bond that is not romantic but goes beyond what most people consider friendship. It is often characterized by a level of commitment that is similar to that of a romantic relationship, and people in a queerplatonic relationship may be of any romantic or sexual orientation. A partner in a queerplatonic relationship is sometimes referred to as a “zucchini.”
QQA:
QQA is an acronym that stands for Queer, Questioning, and Allies. The term “allies” refers to people who do not identify as LGBTQ+ but support and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality.
Questioning:
Questioning refers to someone who is unsure of their sexual orientation. It is common for people to explore and question their sexuality as they grow and develop, and it is important to create a safe and supportive environment for people to do so. It is also important to respect and support the self-identity of every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Rainbow Flag:
The rainbow flag is a symbol that celebrates the uniqueness and diversity within the LGBTQ+ community. It was designed by artist Gilbert Baker in 1978 for San Francisco’s Gay Freedom celebrations, and it has since been adopted nationally and internationally as a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride. The flag consists of six stripes, each a different color ranging from purple to red, which are used to symbolize equality and diversity among all people. Sometimes a black stripe is added to the bottom of the flag to honor those who have died from AIDS.
Retifism:
Retifism, also known as shoe fetishism, refers to a sexual interest or attraction to shoes or other footwear. This can involve a fixation on shoes to the extent that it interferes with sexual expression.
Rimming:
Rimming, also known as anal-oral contact or anilingus, is a form of oral sex that involves contact between the anus or perineum of one person and the mouth of another.
Roleplaying:
Roleplaying involves adopting and acting out the role of a character or part with a different personality, motivation, or background from one’s own. It can be a consensual and enjoyable way to explore different fantasies and identities, and it can be done in person or online.
Rubber Fetishism:
Rubber fetishism is a sexual interest or attraction to the mechanics of bondage, with a particular focus on the equipment and restraints used. Some people who have a rubber fetish may be interested in the look, feel, and aroma of leather and rubber restraints, and they may find pleasure in using these items during sexual activities. It is important to note that all forms of sexual expression and interest are valid as long as they are consensual and do not cause harm to others.
Sadism:
Sadism refers to the act of finding sexual gratification in the infliction of pain or suffering upon another person. It is a term that is often used in the context of BDSM (bondage, discipline, sadism, and masochism) and refers to one partner’s desire to cause pain or suffering to the other. The receptive counterpart of sadism is masochism, which refers to the sexual pleasure or gratification of having pain or suffering inflicted upon oneself. People who enjoy inflicting pain or suffering on others for sexual gratification are known as sadists, while people who enjoy receiving pain or suffering for sexual gratification are known as masochists. The simple desire for pain, regardless of whether it is inflicted or received, is technically known as algolagnia.
Same-sex Attraction:
Same-sex attraction refers to a sexual or romantic attraction to people of one’s own gender. It is a term that is often used as an alternative to more loaded terms such as homosexual, gay, lesbian, or bisexual, and it is a broad term that can encompass a range of identities and experiences.
Sensory Deprivation:
Sensory deprivation refers to the deliberate reduction or removal of stimuli from one or more of the senses. This can be achieved through the use of simple devices such as blindfolds or earmuffs, which block sight and hearing respectively, or more complex devices that can also block the sense of smell, touch, taste, thermoception (sense of temperature), and gravity. Sensory deprivation can be used for a variety of purposes, including as a form of BDSM play or as a means of relaxation or meditation.
Sex:
Sex refers to the biological features that determine a person’s reproductive capacity, such as the presence or absence of specific genitalia, hormones, and chromosomes. Sex is determined by a complex interplay between genes, hormones, and anatomy, and it is not always binary. For example, some people may have the “male” XY chromosomes but be born with a female body because they lack a gene needed to make the body respond to testosterone. It is important to note that sex and gender are not the same thing, and that people of all sexes and genders can have a wide range of identities, expressions, and experiences.
Sexual identity:
Sexual identity refers to an individual’s self-definition as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or heterosexual. This refers to the gender of the people that someone is attracted to and may or may not align with their sexual behavior or orientation. It is important to note that sexual identity is just one aspect of a person’s identity and that people can have a wide range of identities and experiences.
Sexual orientation:
Sexual orientation refers to an individual’s patterns of sexual, romantic, and emotional attraction. It is a three-dimensional concept that includes desire, identity, and behavior, and it can be fluid and change over time. It is important to note that sexual orientation does not always align with sexual behavior and that people can have a wide range of orientations and experiences.
Somatic Narcissist:
A somatic narcissist is a person who has a mental illness or personality disorder characterized by an excessive interest in their own physical appearance and an inflated sense of self-importance. They may flaunt their sexual encounters and conquests, use others solely for sexual pleasure, and strive to acquire material possessions as a means of enhancing their own perceived status. It is important to note that narcissism is a mental health condition that requires professional treatment and support.
Spanking:
Erotic spanking, also known as paddling, is the practice of spanking someone for the sexual gratification of one or both parties. It can be regarded as a form of BDSM activity and is often done with the use of bare hands or implements such as paddles, straps, hairbrushes, or belts. It is important to note that all forms of sexual
Straight:
Straight, or heterosexual, refers to someone who engages in opposite-sex sexual behavior. It is a term that is often used to describe people who are attracted to members of the opposite gender and who may identify as cisgender (i.e., their gender identity aligns with the sex assigned to them at birth).
Straight-acting:
Straight-acting refers to someone who goes to great lengths to hide their same-sex attraction and who may be invested in appearing traditionally “masculine” or “feminine.” This term is often used in relation to LGBTQ+ people who may feel pressure to conform to societal expectations of how someone of their gender should behave.
Telephone Scatologia:
Telephone scatologia refers to a sexual interest or arousal that is derived from making obscene phone calls. This behavior can be illegal and can be harmful to the recipient of the calls.
TERF:
TERF stands for Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist. This term is used to describe feminists who exclude trans people from their activism or who advocate for harm towards trans people. Some TERFs may call themselves “gender-critical feminists,” but the term TERF is generally considered derogatory and is not used by those who identify as trans-inclusive feminists.
Trans:
Trans, or transgender, refers to people who do not perceive, or present, their gender identity in accordance with the sex assigned to them at birth. This can include people who do not identify as the gender they were assigned at birth, people who present as a different gender than the one they were assigned at birth, and people who do not conform to traditional gender roles or expressions. It is important to respect and support the gender identity of every individual, and to use appropriate pronouns and terms when referring to them.
Transgender:
Transgender refers to people who live, or desire to live, a significant part of their life in the role or dress of the gender opposite to that associated with the sex they were assigned at birth. Unlike people with transsexualism, transgender people do not necessarily seek complete and irreversible sex affirmation treatment or sex affirmation surgery. Transgender people may have diverse and fluid sexual identities, and many identify as homosexual. The most common forms of transgender expression are transvestism (dressing in clothing traditionally associated with the opposite gender), drag queens (people who perform as exaggeratedly feminine women), and drag kings (people who perform as exaggeratedly masculine men).
Transvestic fetishism:
Transvestic fetishism refers to a sexual interest or arousal that is derived from cross-dressing. This may involve wearing clothing that is traditionally associated with the opposite gender for the purpose of sexual arousal.
Transsexual:
Transsexual refers to someone who identifies with and/or lives as a person of the opposite biological sex and takes hormones and/or undergoes sex reassignment surgery in order to physically transition to their perceived gender. A transsexual man, or transman, is someone who was assigned female at birth but identifies and lives as a man, while a transsexual woman, or transwoman, is someone who was assigned male at birth but identifies and lives as a woman.
Transition:
Transition refers to the process of changing from one’s birth sex to one’s self-perceived gender. This may involve a range of activities, such as dressing in the manner of the self-perceived gender, changing one’s name to reflect the self-perceived gender, or undergoing hormone therapy and/or sex reassignment surgery to change one’s secondary sex characteristics to reflect the self-perceived gender. It is important to respect and support the gender identity of every individual and to use appropriate pronouns and terms when referring to them.
Transvestite:
Transvestite refers to an individual who adopts the dress and sometimes behavior typical of the opposite gender for a variety of reasons, including emotional and/or sexual pleasure. Transvestism is often a fetish for heterosexual men. It is important to note that this term is considered outdated and may be considered offensive by some people.
Transvestism:
Transvestism refers to the practice of cross-dressing, or wearing the clothing of the opposite sex. A transvestite is a person who cross-dresses.
Two-spirited:
Two-spirited is a term used by some Indigenous American cultures to refer to people who possess both male and female spirits and who are therefore neither male nor female. This term may include lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals. It is important to respect and use the terminology preferred by individuals when referring to their identity.
Urolagnia:
Urolagnia, also known as urophilia or undinism, is a sexual fetish in which participants derive sexual pleasure from urine and urination. People with urolagnia may enjoy urinating in public, or urinating on or being urinated on by other people. They may also drink urine, a practice known as urophagia. These activities are often referred to by the euphemisms “golden showers” or “watersports.” Some people with urolagnia may enjoy watching others engage in these activities.
Urophilia:
Urophilia refers to a sexual interest or arousal that is derived from urine.
Vibrators:
Vibrators are devices that are designed to vibrate against the body and stimulate the nerves for a relaxing and pleasurable feeling. Some vibrators are intended for insertion into a body cavity for erotic stimulation.
Voyeurism:
Voyeurism is a practice in which an individual derives sexual pleasure from observing other people. This may involve watching people engage in sexual acts, or observing people who are nude or partially clothed in a way that is sexually appealing to the voyeur. Voyeurism may be tolerated or even appreciated if the people being viewed are exhibitionists, or people who enjoy being watched. This relationship is often role-playing, where the exhibitionist pretends not to be aware of the voyeur’s presence.
Wet Dream:
A wet dream, also known as a nocturnal emission, is a dream that is accompanied by ejaculation in men. Wet dreams are a normal part of human sexuality and are not necessarily a sign of abnormal behavior.
Flagellation:
Flagellation is the act of whipping the human body using specialized implements such as rods, switches, and cat-o-nine-tails. This activity is often associated with punishment, but it can also be willingly performed or inflicted on oneself in certain religious or sadomasochistic contexts.
WSW:
WSW stands for women who engage in sexual activity with other women but do not identify as lesbian, queer, or bisexual.
Xanith:
Xanith is a term used in some Islamic cultures to refer to individuals who are assigned male at birth but have gender expression and roles that are more similar to those of women. Xanith may be expected to perform traditional female roles within their households and may be judged by standards of female beauty. They may also be segregated with women during certain festivals and may wear more perfume than either men or women. Xanith may be male sexual partners for other men and may choose to change their status to male by marrying a woman and providing proof of consummation through a bloodied handkerchief.
Zami:
Zami is a term used by some lesbians of African descent to refer to women who work together as friends and lovers.
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