What frotting means
Frotting (or frot) usually means two partners rubbing their genitals together, most often used for two people with penises. The wider word frottage covers any sexual rubbing of bodies through or without clothes, including what many people call dry humping.
It is popular as foreplay, as an alternative to penetration, and with couples who want intimacy without intercourse.
Why people enjoy it
Frotting is very close and face-to-face, with lots of skin contact. It needs no special equipment, though a little lube makes it smoother; our lube guide explains which to choose.
Some people use it as part of edging or to take things slowly with a new partner.
How safe is it?
It is lower risk than penetrative sex, but skin-to-skin contact can still pass on herpes, HPV, syphilis and pubic lice, and there is a small risk with other infections where fluids are involved.
Regular testing is sensible with new partners; see our guide to sexual health clinics and STI testing.
Frotteurism is different
Frotting with a willing partner is not the same as frotteurism: rubbing against strangers without consent, for example on crowded trains. That is sexual assault and a crime in the UK.
As always, it should only happen when both people want it; see our guide to consent and boundaries.
Your questions, answered
What does frotting mean?
Rubbing genitals together for sexual pleasure without penetration.
Is frotting safe sex?
It is lower risk than penetration, but skin-to-skin infections such as herpes and HPV can still be passed on.
What is the difference between frotting and frottage?
Frotting usually means genital-to-genital rubbing; frottage is the wider term for any sexual rubbing of bodies, including through clothes.
