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dom

n. · v.
US //ˈdɑm// dom
  1. 1 Document Object Model (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    Stands for Document Object Model. It is a way for computers to understand and change the structure of a website.

    Abbreviation for Document Object Model. A programming interface for web documents that represents the page so that programs can change the document structure, style, and content.

    Example

    The developer used the DOM to make the button change colour when clicked.

    Example

    Efficient manipulation of the DOM is crucial for maintaining high performance in complex single-page applications.

    Usage

    Usually written in all caps as DOM.

  2. 2 a title for monks or nobility (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Formal Archaic Religion

    a title used for some Roman Catholic monks or for royalty in Portugal and Brazil.

    A title of respect prefixed to the names of certain Roman Catholic prelates and Benedictine or Carthusian monks; also used historically for Portuguese and Brazilian royalty.

    Example

    The history book mentioned Dom Pedro, the first emperor of Brazil.

    Example

    Dom Pérignon was a French Benedictine monk who made important contributions to the production and quality of champagne.

    Usage

    Used as a prefix before a first name.
  3. 3 dominant partner (n.)
    C1 Advanced Slang

    the person who takes the leading or controlling role in a specific type of sexual relationship.

    The dominant partner in a BDSM relationship or encounter.

    Example

    They have a clear agreement about who is the Dom in their relationship.

    Example

    The community provides resources for those exploring the dynamics between a Dom and their submissive partner.

    Usage

    Often paired with 'sub' as 'Dom and sub'.
  4. 4 to dominate (v.)
    C1 Advanced Slang Informal

    to take a controlling or leading role over someone else.

    To act as the dominant partner in a relationship or specific interaction.

    Example

    He wanted to find someone who would dom him during their dates.

    Example

    The discussion focused on the importance of consent before one partner agrees to dom another in a roleplay scenario.

    Usage

    Often used in online or niche social contexts.
Etymology 1

Clipping of dominance, dominant, dominate, or domination.

Etymology 2

Borrowed from Portuguese dom. Doublet of domine, dominie, dominus, and don.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Related words

Last updated June 20, 2026