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BDSM Dictionary : Dominatrix: history
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This entry is part of the BDSM Dictionary hosted by Informed Consent.
This is the version from 21 Sep 06, 1:51 PM. The full history of this entry will show any more recent versions.
]] A dominatrix is a woman who takes the dominant role in sado-masochistic sexual practices. The male equivalent is a Dom or Master.
The term dominatrix is little used within the BDSM scene, and is usually used to refer to professional dominants ("pro-dommes"). A more common name for a non-professional dominant woman is Domme or perhaps Mistress, depending on the type of dominant they are. Dominatrix is one of the favourite words used by writers outside the Scene - for example, by tabloid newspapers to refer to pro-dommes involved in scandals with famous customers. There is no equivalent term to describe a professional male dominant.
A dominatrix who asserts she pursues BDSM outside of paying sessions or casual scenes is sometimes called a "lifestyle dominatrix".
While the word dominatrix does not necessarily imply domination of a male partner, the word is very rarely used in the lesbian BDSM Scene.
Notable famous dominatrices, who were professional dominants:
(This entry in the BDSM Dictionary incorporates text from the Dominatrix article in Wipipedia.)
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