A dildo is a sex toy, usually unpowered, that is most often phallic shaped. Dildos penetrate the vagina or anus during masturbation, foreplay, and sex.
Dildos are the oldest sex toy on the planet. It’s believed people used the first dildos roughly 30,000 years ago. Modern dildos are now commonly made of latex, plastic, silicone, wood, glass, and metal.
Dildos can provide a more realistic sex toy experience than vibrators, as they are phallic-shaped and mostly not powered, although vibrating dildos are also available. Many styles also look and feel more like real penises. There are even squirting dildos that you can fill with liquid.
Dildos made from materials such as metal and glass provide a very different sensory experience than a penis does. No matter what material your dildo is made from, use it with a high-quality personal lubricant to help make insertion easier and more pleasurable.
If you’re interested in anal penetration, try a special anal dildo. These are often narrower and curved slightly for easier insertion. Anything you are inserting anally must have a wide, flared base to ensure part of the sex toy stays securely outside of your body. If you’re unsure of the size you need, consider an inflatable dildo. You can pump these sex toys up to your preferred size after insertion.
Dildos with suction cups at one end can be stuck to smooth surfaces such as bathtubs and walls. These dildos suit hands-free play on your own or with a partner.
A dildo may also be called a "dong" - though many people have transitioned to using the term "dildo" instead.