Gimp (sadomasochism)

Gimp is a derogatory term used to refer to a (gay male or female) sexual submissive person, typically dressed in a black leather or rubber costume (often known as a "gimp suit"), along with a bondage hood or mask of the same material.

The term Gimp is used to denote imperfection, and presents the gay male as only good for one thing, their sexual organs or body parts.

This apparel emphasises sexuality by drawing attention to the crotch and chest, and sexually objectifies the wearer.

Sadomasochistic practice often features in the notion of the gimp, with a partnership of power exchange between gimp and dominatrix or dominant.

Use in pop culture
The term "gimp" achieved widespread notoriety through its use in the movie Pulp Fiction in the famous "pawn shop" scene. In the scene, the "gimp" is dressed in a black leather costume, featuring spiked bracelets and a mask.


 * Zed: Bring out the Gimp.
 * Maynard: I think the Gimp's sleepin'.
 * Zed: Well, I guess you'll just have to wake him up now, won't you?

The 'Gimp' then stands guard as the character Marsellus Wallace, played by Ving Rhames, is raped.