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What Does BDSM Stand For? Acronym, Meaning & Kinky Origins

22 March, 2022

Last Updated on 9 September, 2025 by Cara Sutra

Curious about BDSM? This guide answers the question “what does BDSM stand for?”, breaks down the acronym, explores its origins, and looks at the BDSM triskelion symbol recognised worldwide.

What do you know about BDSM? Perhaps you are already part of the scene, a fellow kinkster, or maybe you are simply curious about this fascinating subculture. Read on to find out more about BDSM, what the acronym stands for and the symbology associated with it.

What Does BDSM Stand For? The BDSM Acronym Explained

BDSM is an acronym made up of three distinct pairings. These represent different elements of consensual kink:

BD: Bondage and Discipline
DS: Dominance and Submission
SM: Sadism and Masochism

Let’s look at each in more detail.

Bondage and Discipline in BDSM

Bondage

Bondage is the sexual or psychological enjoyment of consensually restraining someone, or being restrained. Physical restraint may involve bondage cuffs, rope, or other accessories designed to limit movement or create complete restriction.

Discipline

Discipline in BDSM means the use of punishment for sexual arousal or psychological fulfilment. This can involve spanking by hand, spanking toys, floggers, canes, crops or whips.

Dominance and Submission in BDSM

Dominance

Dominance is the consensual act of controlling another person. This might take place in a sexual setting, in adult-only activities, or discreetly in everyday life. Commands or tasks are given to the submissive partner, who carries them out to the best of their ability.

Submission

Submission is the consensual surrender of control to a Dominant partner. This can be temporary, during a BDSM scene, or part of a long-term power exchange relationship. Consent must always be at the centre, and the aim is mutual enjoyment and fulfilment.

You may see Dominance and submission written as D/s, with a capital D and lower-case s to highlight the power dynamic.

Sadism and Masochism in BDSM

Sadism

Sadism takes its name from French writer Marquis de Sade (1740–1814), who chronicled fantasies of inflicting suffering for sexual arousal. In BDSM today, consent is essential. Sadistic play might include corporal punishment (spanking), predicament bondage, or other consensual painful practices, always agreed upon in advance with safewords and limits in place.

Masochism

Masochism is named after Austrian writer Leopold von Sacher-Masoch (1836–1895), author of Venus in Furs. He described the satisfaction of being beaten and dominated. In BDSM, masochism refers to the enjoyment of receiving pain or humiliation for sexual or psychological pleasure.

Sadism and masochism are often combined into the term sadomasochism, or shortened to S&M.

The Universal Symbol for BDSM

Now that we have answered “what does BDSM stand for,” you may wonder if there are symbols linked to this world. The most widely recognised is the BDSM triskelion.

This design is usually black on a white background, made up of three swirling sections. You might see it in jewellery or tattoos, discreetly signalling someone’s interest in BDSM.

How Did the BDSM Triskelion Begin?

The triskelion emblem was created in the mid-1990s by Steve Quagmyr during an AOL discussion.

The design was inspired by The Story of O, in which a character receives a ring marked with a three-spoked wheel.

The BDSM triskelion is reminiscent of the yin-yang symbol, with spirals representing balance and interconnectedness. It has since become an accepted global sign for BDSM.

What Is the Meaning of the BDSM Triskelion?

Interpretations vary, but common meanings include:

The three pairs of the BDSM acronym (bondage/discipline, dominance/submission, sadism/masochism).
The BDSM principle of Safe, Sane and Consensual (SSC).
The three identities often found in BDSM: Dominants/Tops, submissives/bottoms, and switches.

Steve Quagmyr himself explained that black symbolises the chains and irons of BDSM, the curved lines represent the lash in motion, and the circle represents unity within the BDSM community.

Further BDSM Advice and Guides

BDSM is vast, and this article only scratches the surface. If you would like to read more, you can explore:

Stay safe, communicate openly, and enjoy exploring BDSM at your own pace.

BDSM FAQ: Common Questions Answered

What does BDSM stand for?

BDSM stands for Bondage and Discipline, Dominance and Submission, and Sadism and Masochism. These elements describe different consensual aspects of kink.
👉 Related reading: BDSM Beginner’s Guide

What does D/s mean in BDSM?

D/s is shorthand for Dominance and submission. The capital D and lower-case s highlight the power dynamic between a Dominant and a submissive partner.
👉 Explore more in my D/s Identities Guide

What is the BDSM triskelion symbol?

The BDSM triskelion is a three-part symbol, usually black on white, representing the BDSM acronym, Safe Sane Consensual, or the main BDSM roles of Dominant, submissive, and switch.
👉 Related: BDSM Symbols: Triskelion, Flag and More

Is BDSM safe?

BDSM is safe when practised with clear communication, mutual consent, and an understanding of limits. Many follow the principles of SSC (Safe, Sane, Consensual) or RACK (Risk-Aware Consensual Kink).
👉 Learn more: Safewords and Traffic Lights: How to Say Stop in BDSM

Is BDSM legal?

Yes, BDSM is legal when all activities are consensual and do not cause serious harm. Laws vary by country, so it is always wise to understand local regulations.
👉 Related: Is Active Consent Required in a Relationship?

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