When you think of the term “dominant,” you may immediately think of brash personality traits or even 50 Shades of Grey. But what about dominant women?
A dominant woman can be a woman who is in complete control of her life, career, and relationships.
It can also mean that she is interested in dominating partners in a sexual manner, also known as being a dominatrix.
Understanding what a dominant woman is can help you if you are dating a confident and independent woman or if you are curious about what it takes to become a dominatrix yourself.
What is a dominant woman?

A dominant woman can be many things, depending on the context of the situation in which dominant women are being discussed.
A dominant woman may be extremely domineering or in total control of her life.
Dominant and domineering women may always need to be right, will not take no for an answer, and may come off as aggressive or blunt to others.
In a sexual manner, a dominant woman is a woman who enjoys showcasing dominance over a sexual partner, often a partner who prefers playing a submissive role.
Personality traits of a dominant woman
Whether you are interested in dating a dominant woman or you are curious about dominant women in general, familiarizing yourself with common personality traits that every dominant woman has can help.
Independence

A solid marker of an independent and dominant woman is her insatiable thirst for true independence.
Dominant women prefer leading the way, making decisions, and building a life for themselves.
They do not seek a partner or advice from another in order to make decisions, even if they are life-altering.
An independent woman may come across as domineering and controlling to those who are unfamiliar with what it means for a woman to be truly independent.
Charisma and communication

When you encounter a woman who is truly dominant and a leader, she will shine with charisma and the ability to communicate.
A dominant woman knows the importance of communication and sending a message, which is why it is imperative for her to improve her own communication skills in order to leave a lasting impression.
The dominant woman will not think twice about becoming the center of focus and attention in a room.
She thrives in a room of peers, even if they are watching her and waiting for her to crack.
A dominant woman takes pride in her ability to charm a room and to mingle with ease.
Organized

Women who are deeply intelligent and lead a dominant lifestyle will likely be extremely organized.
Being a good planner is necessary when leading an independent life, which is what a dominant woman does, sexually or not.
Staying organized is key to managing clientele, handling accounting, and even making future plans for relationships, travel, and career.
You will also notice that a dominant woman has the ability to remain hyper-focused while simultaneously multitasking without issue.
Intelligence

A woman who is dominant and demonstrates leadership qualities will more than likely be extremely intelligent.
Women who are in charge of their lives, their careers, as well as the partners and paths they choose often showcase a higher-than-average intelligence level.
A dominant woman will also take pride in her intellect and will use it to her advantage whenever it is convenient and/or necessary.
What is a dominant woman in bed?

Aside from showing off staggering independence, swagger, and confidence, a dominant woman outside of the bedroom may also prefer to be dominating in bed.
When a woman prefers to take on the role of a dominant figure in bed, she is often referred to as a dominatrix.
The term “dominatrix” is not new but has become increasingly popular in the past few decades.
A dominatrix is typically a woman who plays the dominant role in any BDSM or sexual activity.
A dominatrix will typically use a variety of methods to submit, humiliate, or appease her partner, especially if his or her own fantasies involve being dominated by another woman.
Dominating women and the history of the dominatrix can be traced back far beyond the rituals of Gods, Goddesses, and powerful mythical creatures.
Even tales from Aristotle highlight dominant women who seduce and dominate men.
Signs she might be dominant in bed
If you are dating a woman you suspect is dominant, there may be a few tell-tale signs that will indicate she is in fact, dominant in bed as well as outside of it.
She admits it

A dominant woman has no time for games, especially when it comes to her sexual fantasies and predilections.
She will rarely keep her preferences a secret, especially if she is around friends or others she trusts.
While this is not always the case, it is more probable for a dominatrix to share her lifestyle more openly than it is for a dominant woman to share her fantasies that have yet to be fulfilled.
Her personality

If you are unsure whether a woman is more likely to be dominant in bed, it is important to consider her everyday personality traits and behaviors.
Although this is not always telling, it can provide valuable insight into how a woman thinks, feels, and reacts to a wide range of topics and potential situations.
If a woman turns to others for assistance and guidance without speaking up, she may be shy to open up about fantasies or being dominant.
Women who are assertive and are unafraid to speak their minds, regardless of who they are surrounded by, may be more open to being dominant in bed if they have not already.
Using physical force

Women who are more dominant in bed may be comfortable with getting more physical, even when they are not involved in a sexual situation.
Physical force to showcase frustration and upset is a common trait that is often exhibited in men but can also be more prevalent in women who are more dominant and assertive as well.
A noticeable temper

A woman who is quick to anger or has difficulties managing her own moods and temper may also exhibit more domineering and dominant traits.
A domineering woman will not go unheard and is more likely to speak up and speak over others whenever she feels it is necessary.
The need for control

A woman who enjoys dictating the rules of her courtship, her relationship, career, lifestyle, and daily itinerary is more likely to exhibit dominant traits and behaviors in the bedroom.
When a woman releases her inhibitions and embraces her self-confidence, she will feel more empowered and capable of making decisions when it comes to the nature of any relationships she pursues.
It is not uncommon for a dominant woman to thrive on chasing her partners.
She may enjoy having the option to choose between partners and to choose when to settle down with one.
Can a dominant woman be submissive in bed?

Yes! This phenomenon is actually much more common than you might think.
A woman who displays fiercely independent and domineering personality traits in her everyday life may prefer to take on the role of the submissive when in bed.
While this is not always true, it is possible and can reflect the need to take a break from the pressure of taking and maintaining control on a daily basis.
A woman who is dominant in her daily life but prefers to be submissive and dominated herself in bed may enjoy the fantasy of releasing all control in her life, even if she does so only temporarily and when in bed with a partner.
The best way to discover whether or not your confident and dominant woman prefers to be submissive in bed is to simply ask her directly.
A dominant woman will rarely recoil in humiliation, shame, or disgust, especially when discussing her own preferences, prerogatives, and needs.
How to discuss dominance in bed
If you want to become more dominant in bed or if you believe you are dating a dominant woman, the prospect of broaching the subject with a new partner can feel intimidating, especially if you are unfamiliar with how to share your own feelings.
Knowing how to have an open discussion regarding dominance and the roles you take on in bed can help to make your romantic and sexual life much more satisfying and fulfilling.
Consider your current partner

Before discussing your feelings about being dominant in bed or being submissive, consider the partner you are with and whether or not they are open to discussions that are sexual in nature.
It is essential to have a partner that you can trust and remain open and honest with if you are interested in exploring your sexual curiosity.
Because all partners are different, your partner may require some warming up if you have yet to discuss fantasies and sexual preferences together.
Make light of the topic

If you are unsure of where to begin when discussing being dominant or submissive, consider making light of the idea when you are outside of the bedroom with your partner.
You can also do this while in bed together if you are more comfortable then.
Making jokes about being a dominatrix or being dominated can help you to gauge the reaction and immediate response of your partner.
Playing the situation off lightly is a way to determine whether or not the fantasy is appealing to your current partner and whether or not it is worth it to pursue as a couple.
Be direct

Once you know where your partner stands in terms of sexual preferences and fantasies, it is much easier to be direct with your wants and needs.
Speak openly, honestly, and truthfully regarding the type of fantasies you have in mind when it comes to dominating or being dominated in bed.
Avoid judgments or harsh reactions when speaking to your partner about your preferences and desires for the first time, especially if they are unfamiliar with your fantasies and what it means to be dominant or dominated.
If you want your partner to remain actively engaged in the type of fantasies you have in mind, you will need to be kind, receptive, and understanding of your partner as well.
Learning about dominant women and who they are both in and out of the bedroom can help you on your own journey of self-exploration.
Whether you are interested in dominating your current partner or if you are seeking a dominatrix as a partner for yourself, understanding the meaning of a dominant woman will assist you along the way.