Safeword: what it means
A word or signal agreed in advance that immediately stops or pauses play, no questions asked. It is usually something that would not come up naturally (“red” or “pineapple”). When speaking is not possible, partners agree a non-verbal signal instead, such as dropping an object or tapping out.
In practice
Pick a word that would never come up by accident and that everyone remembers easily. Many people also agree a non-verbal signal, such as tapping out or dropping a held object, in case speaking is hard. When a safeword is used, everything stops, everyone checks in, and nobody is made to feel bad for using it.
Consent and safety
Consent tools only work when everyone agrees on them ahead of time, sober and without pressure. Anyone can pause or stop at any moment, and a “yes” last week is not a “yes” today. If something feels off, stopping is always the right call. For meeting someone new, see our safety tips.
Related terms
Learn more
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General education for adults 18+, not medical or legal advice. Definitions vary between communities; when in doubt, ask your partner what a word means to them.