Honorifics

Honorifics are titles or forms of address used within kink, BDSM, or power-exchange contexts to express respect, authority, intimacy, or submission. Common examples include Daddy, Sir, Ma’am, Master, Mistress, good girl, or pet. Honorifics are not roles on their own. They are titles used to signal a dynamic, mood, or Dominant/submissive (D/s) relationship. ### How to Use Honorifics Honorifics should only be used with the consent of everyone involved. Their use is not automatic, even within an established Dominant/submissive or Top/bottom dynamic. It's important to know that: - Being in a D/s relationship does not mean honorifics are required. - Some Dominants prefer to be called by their name rather than a title. - Some submissives love being addressed with an honorific, even if the Dominant would not otherwise use titles. Honorifics can also be used outside formal D/s relationships, as long as both people agree. For example, a Top and bottom may agree to use Master or Sir during scenes without having a Master/slave dynamic. In some setting, such as high-protocol events or parties, specific honorifics may be required for participation. For example, attendees may be expected to address women as Ma’am or Mistress for the duration of the event. In these cases, consent is given by choosing to attend and follow the protocol. People who are not comfortable using those honorifics simply opt out.