Bottom
Our Definition
the party receiving sensation during a scene or sexual encounter.
Often conflated with Submissive, due to a large overlap and shared history in the BDSM community. However, the two concepts are separate, and bottoming does not necessitate submission.
Real Life Examples
Hildebrand considers themself a bottom and a masochist, but does not identify with either dominance or submission; they prefer scenes that do not focus on power exchange dynamics.
Lulu is a dominant who enjoys “directing” scenes from the bottom.
Hortensius is a bottom and also a submissive.
Common Practices
Everyone is different! You'll see this repeated throughout our website and glossary. Common bottoming practices include, but certainly aren't limited to
- Receiving impact (spanking, whipping, etc.)
- Being bound or tied up
- Being penetrated
- Being on the receiving end of sensation and/or pain play.
Got a beef with our definition?
Of course we don't speak for everyone! If you feel we are missing additional info, context, facts, history, or data, please email us and let us know!
While we can't promise every suggestion will make it, we'll always be working to keep this glossary thorough and inclusive!