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This entry belongs to Kink & BDSM, a category written for adults. Entries are factual and non-explicit, with a focus on consent and safety.

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Femdom - meaning and definition

AlsoFLRfemale dominancefemale-led relationshipFLRfemale dominationwoman-led relationship

Definition

Female dominance: kink dynamics in which a woman takes the dominant role, sometimes extended into a 'female-led relationship'.

At a glance

  • Femdom means female dominance: a woman in the dominant role in a kink dynamic.
  • The submissive partner can be of any gender.
  • A female-led relationship (FLR) applies a similar idea to everyday decision-making, with or without kink.
  • The same principles apply as in any power exchange: limits, safewords, the right to stop and aftercare.
  • Professional dominatrices typically work under strict rules about limits and consent.

In detail

Femdom describes a woman as the dominant partner, with a partner of any gender in the submissive role. A 'female-led relationship' (FLR) applies a similar idea to everyday decision-making, which may or may not include kink.

The same principles apply as in any power exchange: negotiated limits, safewords, the right to stop and care afterwards. Professional dominatrices, who offer sessions as a paid service, typically work under strict rules about limits and consent.

In a sentence

  • Her profile mentions femdom and says negotiation comes first.
  • They describe their marriage as an FLR, which for them is mostly about who makes household decisions.

Where the word comes from

A blend of 'female' and 'dominance'. The short form FLR, for 'female-led relationship', spread through online communities more recently.

Common questions

What is a female-led relationship?

A female-led relationship, or FLR, is one where partners agree that the woman takes the lead in decision-making. For some couples this includes kink; for others it is only about everyday roles.

Does femdom have different safety rules?

No. The same principles apply as in any power exchange: careful negotiation, agreed limits, a safeword or signal, the right to stop at any time and aftercare.

Related terms