Gay sex roles

The man lying on his back is the "top" and the other man is the "bottom"

In human sexuality, top, bottom, and versatile are roles during sexual activity, especially between two (or more) males or between males and intersex people. A top is usually a person who penetrates, a bottom is usually one who receives penetration, and someone who is versatile engages in either or both roles. These terms may be elements of self-identity that indicate an individual's usual preference and habits, but might also describe broader sexual identities and social roles.[1]

The terms top and bottom do not refer to the literal physical position during sex.

For men who have sex with men and do not engage in anal sex, the term "side" has been proposed and has seen commercial use. Side men do not engage in anal sex but rather enjoy outercourse.

  1. ^ Steven Gregory Underwood (2003). Gay men and anal eroticism: tops, bottoms, and versatiles. Psychology Press. ISBN 1-56023-375-3. Archived from the original on 2021-03-10. Retrieved 2011-12-02.