Bottom
The partner taking the more receptive role in a given scene.
Bottom describes the partner taking the more receptive role within a given scene — the one receiving sensation, instruction, or control from a partner. Like Top, it describes a role within a specific scene, not a fixed trait or a statement about someone's personality more broadly.
Bottoming is an active role, not a passive one: a Bottom is expected to communicate clearly about their experience, use a safeword or check-in signal when needed, and participate fully in negotiation beforehand.
Someone might bottom in every scene they do, only occasionally, or only with specific partners — all equally common and equally valid.
Communication & Consent
Being a Bottom doesn't mean going quiet during a scene — speaking up, using a check-in signal, or reaching for a safeword are all expected parts of the role, not something that undermines it.
Taking the Bottom role does not mean agreeing to anything beyond what was actually negotiated — the ability to pause or stop the scene belongs to a Bottom exactly as much as to anyone else involved.
Related Terms
Ready to Document Your Own Interests?
Create a private profile, note where you stand on Bottom — and everything else — and share it only when you're ready.