The word Sadism was first introduced into the English language in 1888, as noted by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. It is the word coined to give name to the psychological character make-up of the Marquis de Sade, and is the result of a vast number of investigations and conferences held among medical and psychological professionals, as well as philosophers, theologians, sociologists, and anthropologists. It is a strict reference to the psychological pleasure derived from inflicting pain.

Sadism has nothing to do with the erotic, nor does it concern itself with inflicting “delight” of any kind. Sadism is strictly and specifically focused on administering pain to another being. Sadism does exist outside the realm of BDSM as well within. The difference between the two instances is consent. In the realm of BDSM, sadism is ONLY defined by the enjoyment of inflicting pain upon another person, and is strictly and specifically focused on the PLEASURE and JOY found in inflicting such pain. Sadism is expressed as a power exchange between the Sadist and his/her partner through consensual activity that involves inflicting pain upon the recipient. The Sadist may revel in the struggle of his victim. The Sadist may savor the flavor of suffering endured by the other party. The Sadist may find some form of erotic pleasure or satisfaction or fulfillment in this activity, however that is not the objective or goal. Such erotic pleasure is simply a secondary by-product. The sole purpose and goal of sadistic activity to the Sadist is the pleasure received by inflicting pain. There are many times in which a Sadist may choose to inflict pain for the sheer enjoyment of doing so, and there is no erotic engagement whatsoever in that infliction. And still none of this means that a Dominant must also be a Sadist. There are many Dominants who derive no pleasure at all from inflicting pain of any kind.