Understanding the Slang Terms
The slang terms ‘top’ and ‘bottom’ are often used within the LGBTQ+ community to describe a person’s preferred sexual role, particularly in same-sex relationships. These terms can also be used in non-sexual contexts to indicate dominance or submission in various situations.
Top
In sexual terms, a ‘top’ refers to the partner who takes on the more dominant or active role during intercourse. This might involve penetrating their partner, whether through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Being a ‘top’ is not necessarily about physical size or strength but more about the dynamic of the sexual interaction.
Examples of Usage
- ‘She is usually a top in her relationships.’
- ‘He identifies as a top in the bedroom.’
Bottom
Conversely, a ‘bottom’ is the partner who typically takes on the more submissive or receptive role during sexual activities. This may involve being penetrated by the top partner. Similar to being a top, being a bottom is more about the role within the sexual dynamic rather than any physical attributes.
Examples of Usage
- ‘He prefers to be a bottom during sex.’
- ‘She identifies as a bottom in her relationships.’
Non-Sexual Use
Besides their sexual connotations, the terms ‘top’ and ‘bottom’ can also be used in various non-sexual contexts. For example, someone might be described as a ‘top performer’ in their job, indicating they excel in their field. On the other hand, a ‘bottom feeder’ could refer to someone who engages in unethical practices for personal gain.
Examples of Non-Sexual Usage
- ‘She is a top student in her class.’
- ‘He’s a bottom feeder who takes advantage of others.’
Summary
In conclusion, the slang terms ‘top’ and ‘bottom’ hold different meanings depending on the context in which they are used. While these terms are commonly associated with sexual roles within the LGBTQ+ community, they can also be employed in non-sexual scenarios to denote dominance, submission, skill, or integrity.
