Clear language, organized by category.

A social and cultural practice of non-sexual nudity that often emphasizes body acceptance, respect for others, and connection with nature. Customs and rules differ among communities and locations.

A conversation before an activity or event that covers expectations, limits, communication, safety, privacy, and how anyone can pause or stop.

A varied group of modern movements and practices influenced by selective interpretations of Tantra along with Western esotericism, counterculture, personal-growth culture, psychotherapy, and contemporary sexuality education. Neo-Tantra often emphasizes intimacy and sexuality more strongly than historical Tantric traditions.

A partner with whom someone shares a home or substantial domestic responsibilities. The term describes living arrangement and entanglement without necessarily assigning emotional rank.

The intense excitement, focus, and infatuation that can accompany a new relationship. Often shortened to NRE, it can be enjoyable while also affecting attention, judgment, time management, and existing commitments.

An approach to polyamory that avoids assigning predetermined ranks or blanket priority among partners. It does not mean every relationship receives identical time, commitments, or responsibilities.

A consensual adult role in which someone is treated as an object, doll, toy, display, or function for a defined scene or dynamic. The fantasy does not diminish the person's real agency or rights.

Lifestyle venue terms distinguishing events where sexual activity is permitted at the venue from social-only events where it is not. House rules still determine what is allowed at any specific event.

An agreement or rule that permits a partner to have additional relationships with women or some non-men but not with other men or people with penises. Often shortened to OPP, it is contested because it may reflect gendered double standards, trans exclusion, or unequal control.

A relationship in which partners agree that one or more of them may have sexual or romantic connections with other people. The permissions, limits, and degree of disclosure are defined by the people involved.

Sexual stimulation of another person's genitals or anus using the mouth, lips, or tongue. Specific forms include fellatio, cunnilingus, and anilingus.

A documented difference in reported orgasm frequency between groups, often discussed in relation to gender and sexual orientation. Its size depends on the population, relationship context, sexual activities measured, and wording of the study, so it should not be treated as one universal percentage.

Authority titles used in some ownership, pet-play, protocol, or training dynamics. Each title can imply different responsibilities and must be defined by the participants; none creates legal ownership or unrestricted control.

In swinging and group settings, sexual activity taking place near other people or couples without sexual contact between the separate pairings or groups.

A dominant whose style emphasizes emotional intensity, desire, closeness, and expressive connection within negotiated authority.

A BDSM risk framework, often shortened to PRICK, that emphasizes informed consent and each participant's responsibility to communicate, assess risk, and act within their abilities. Responsibility remains shared and does not excuse coercion or boundary violations.

A consenting adult who adopts an animal-inspired identity, behavior, or relationship role in pet play. The role may involve playfulness, care, training, embodiment, or power exchange.

A private or organized adult gathering where socializing and permitted consensual activities may occur under stated house rules and privacy expectations.

A dominant whose style centers on directing, controlling, giving, or withholding pleasure within a negotiated power exchange.

A form of consensual non-monogamy that allows for more than one intimate or romantic relationship with the knowledge and agreement of everyone involved.