dominatrix

[ dom-uh-ney-triks ]

noun

, plural dom·i·na·tri·ces [dom-, uh, -, ney, -tr, uh, -seez, -n, uh, -, trahy, -seez].

1. a woman who plays the dominant role in a BDSM sexual encounter or relationship, often in a paid or professional capacity. dominant ( def 7 ), domme ( def ), femdom ( def 2 ).
2. a woman who dominates, oppresses, or behaves in a dictatorial way.

dominatrix

/ ˌdɒmɪˈneɪtrɪks /

noun

1. a woman who is the dominant sexual partner in a sadomasochistic relationship
2. a dominant woman

Gender Note

See -trix.

Word History and Origins

Origin of dominatrix¹

First recorded in 1555–65; Latin: literally, “female ruler, mistress”; dominate, -trix

Word History and Origins

Origin of dominatrix¹

C16: from Latin, fem of dominātor , from dominārī to be lord over

Example Sentences

What Nick wanted in a partner was a wife and a dominatrix in one.

From Los Angeles Times

At a co-ed breakup retreat in Northern California, attendees participated in a burning ceremony, learned about power dynamics from a professional dominatrix and more.

From Los Angeles Times

What Nick wanted in a partner was a wife and a dominatrix in one.

From Los Angeles Times

At a co-ed breakup retreat in Northern California, attendees participated in a burning ceremony, learned about power dynamics from a professional dominatrix and more.

From Los Angeles Times

The actress also talked about being a dominatrix as a teenager - she said it was "such a self-esteem booster" and made her see her worth "a little bit more".

From BBC