master

In a consensual BDSM (bondage, discipline, sadism and masochism) context, 'master' refers to an experienced or dominant partner who exercises control over another individual known as a submissive or 'slave'. This power dynamic is established through mutual consent and involves negotiated boundaries, rules, and expectations that are agreed upon between both partners before engaging in any activities. The term 'Master' or 'Meister' also has historical roots in European chivalry, where it referred to a lord or feudal overlord who held political authority over vassals or knights. In military settings, 'drill instructor' may be used to denote someone who trains recruits or newcomers in strict and disciplined ways. In BDSM circles, however, the usage of these terms does not necessarily imply actual authority or power dynamics outside of the consensual play setting.