Degradation

Our Definition

the consensual psychological demeaning or humiliation of one partner by another. 

Real Life Examples

Honoria likes to verbally insult her partner during play, using terms like “whore” and “idiot” 

Julio likes to play up their partner’s desperation, and use humiliation while degrading their partner, sometimes spitting on them.

Common Practices &

Experiences 

Everyone is different! You'll see this repeated throughout our website and glossary. Common practices and experiences involving degradation include, but certainly aren't limited to:

  • Communicating with a partner ahead of time to clarify what kind of language (if any) should be avoided and to establish physical boundaries as well.
  • Use of words like “slut” “whore” or other sexuality-tinged insults.
  • Use of physical positions or actions that reinforce a power-dynamic, such as a top stepping on a bottom.

Related terms:

Humiliation

Dehumanization

Objectification

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!