dominatrix

noun

do·​mi·​na·​trix ˌdä-mi-ˈnā-triks 

plural dominatrices ˌdä-mi-ˈnā-trə-sēz 

-nə-ˈtrī-sēz

also dominatrixes

: a woman who physically or psychologically dominates her partner in a sadomasochistic encounter

broadly : a dominating woman

Examples of dominatrix in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Early on, her costumes evolved from classic (a dominatrix the first year, a vampire in 2005) to more complex (a skinless person in 2011) to complete cosplay. — José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 28 Oct. 2026

Alex is a talented dominatrix, heroin addict, and the most powerful, magnetic and beautiful woman in every room. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 13 Aug. 2026

The long-time TV veteran maintained a recurring part as dominatrix Lady Heather in six episodes of CSI from 2001 to 2011 and later booked another meaty antagonistic role on Nikita. — Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 5 Aug. 2026

The model also told the publication that her fashion inspiration ranges from ‘50s pin-up stars to dominatrixes. — Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 20 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, feminine of dominator

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined above