In a BDSM scene, a mistress is a female dominant, or dominatrix, in a top/bottom relationship. The term is the female version of the term "master," which refers to a male dominant. Consenting male and female submissives may be under the control of a mistress, who will often require that they perform any tasks she requests, including sexual activities. If a submissive is disobedient or does not please a mistress, the submissive may be punished.
