Shemale
Definition
Shemale is an outdated and offensive term from the porn industry, used to sexually fetishize trans women. Within BDSM, this term is deliberately discouraged because of its derogatory and dehumanizing nature.
Explanation of shemale
The term shemale has its origins in commercial pornography and was used to label trans women in a way that reduces their humanity to a sexual product. The word is not neutral or descriptive: it was deliberately created as a fetish term, ignoring, objectifying, or mocking a person’s gender identity.
Within BDSM – where consent, respect, and mature experience are central – this term is therefore explicitly avoided. Many people do not realize that shemale carries the same weight as other explicitly offensive terms that are no longer accepted in modern communication.
Correct terminology
In today’s kink community, respectful, correct terminology is used. When referring to a trans woman in a BDSM context, one simply uses “trans woman” or “woman” (depending on what she indicates she prefers). The emphasis is on the person and the dynamic, not on a pornographic classification.
This does not mean that fetishes surrounding gender identity do not exist within BDSM – they do exist and can be experienced in a fully consensual manner – but terminology is important. Respectful language creates a safe and mature setting, something that is central to your entire platform.
Safety & points of attention
The most important safety rule surrounding this word is both linguistic and social: never use unwanted or objectifying terms for someone’s identity.
It is also important to realize that this word is considered hateful in many countries. In the BDSM world – where voluntariness and respect are paramount – this is completely contrary to the ethics of the game.
Related terms shemale
Crossdressing
Gender bending
Sissification
More information
