Understanding the Role of the Ukete
The term “Ukete” (受け手) in the context of Japanese rope bondage, or Shibari/Kinbaku, refers to the person being tied—the receiver of the rope. It’s a nuanced and respectful alternative to more commonly used Western terms like “submissive,” “bottom,” or “model.” In Japanese, “ukeru” means “to receive,” and “te” means “hand” or “person,” so “ukete” literally translates to “the one who receives.”