BDSM.tech the plain-English kink reference BDSM & kink, explained in plain English
- Also known as
- Kink, D/s, power exchange
- Covers
- Bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, sadism, masochism
- Entries here
- 42 kinks in 5 categories
- Core principle
- Informed, ongoing, revocable consent
- Frameworks
- SSC, RACK, PRICK
BDSM is an umbrella term for consensual erotic practices built around power, restraint and sensation. This reference explains it without jargon or judgement: roles and dynamics, practices, consent and safety, and the full kink glossary. Take the kink test, browse the kinks list, or start with the guides below.
The essentials
How to get into BDSM
New to all this? Start with the calm beginner's guide.
What does BDSM stand for?
The four letters: and everything they cover.
Dominant & submissive
The core D/s roles, explained in plain English.
Types of BDSM play
Your map to the whole spectrum of play.
Consent & safety
SSC, RACK and the frameworks that keep it safe.
The psychology of BDSM
Why people enjoy it: and why it's healthy.
Categories of kink
Every entry in the glossary sits in one of 5 categories. Jump straight to one:
Glossary sample
A sample of the 42 entries in the glossary. See the complete kinks list, A to Z, or the most common kinks if you would rather start with what is widespread.
Recently added guides
BDSM Contracts: What They Are & How to Write One
A BDSM contract puts a dynamic in writing, roles, rules, limits and a safeword. What goes in one, wh…
BDSM Roleplay: Scenarios, Ideas & How to Make It Work
BDSM roleplay is acting out a scene, character or power scenario together. What it is, popular scena…
Body Image and Kink: Confidence, Comparison & Belonging
Body insecurity holds a lot of people back from kink: needlessly. Why kink communities are more body…
Meet people who share your kinks
Match with like-minded adults, join private discussions, and explore safely.
BDSM.tech is written and maintained by a small editorial team. Entries are reviewed on a rolling basis; see Editorial standards for how claims are sourced.