Girlboss

In BDSM, Girlboss usually refers to a woman who chooses to take on a confident, assertive role in a relationship, often embracing leadership or dominant traits stereotypically linked to masculinity. In role-reversal dynamics, she may lead decision-making, manage household or emotional labor, and express female empowerment. The term is often used tongue-in-cheek.

This role is often paired with malewife.

Origins of the Term

The term girlboss comes from mainstream culture, where it's considered an empowering (while controversial) label for women who are confident, self-made, and in charge of their careers. The term was coined in a 2024 memoir, "#GIRLBOSS," by Sophia Amoruso, an autobiography that covered her rise as the founder of Nasty Gal and Girlboss Media.

Controversy

While this term was originally framed as empowering, it has also been criticized for promoting individual success without addressing the systemic inequality that can keep many women from taking on leadership roles.

Similarly, on the kink side, there is concern that this playful archetype can present dominance in a certain way, rather than allowing people to find what works for them. Mostly, however, this term appears to be embraced by women and femme-presenting people who see themselves as powerful figures.