Dildo: The definition dildo listed in the dictionary is: Dildo*., noun: a vibrating device that substitutes for an erect penis to provide vaginal** and/or anal stimulation. As stated by this proper dictionary definition, dildos have become traditionally-defined as a type of sex toy that vibrates or is electronic.  However, dildos originated from Ancient Greece long before electronics/ vibrators were even invented!  What does this mean? It can mean two things. First of all, a dildo is a somewhat phallic-like shaped object/sex toy. Dildos are used for purposes of insertion in vaginal, anal and even oral sex toy play. The main difference between a dong and a dildo is that a dildo does not have testicles or balls attached to it. Dildos can be phallic-looking, but they do not have those attributes.

The term “dildo” has become more commonly-used to reference, well, all sex toys, really. When assisting a guest, it is commonplace to find that guests often to refer to any given type of sex toy as a dildo. This can be quite confusing to the staff member assisting such a guest. The best way to gain clarity is not to correct guests’ improper use of sex toy terminology by imparting your fascinating wealth of product knowledge. Instead, the easier thing to do is to listen to them to them talk about the sex toy that has grabbed their attention. When guests see a toy they find interesting, they will often describe the attributes and specific characteristics about the toy they like. When guests mention such attributes and characteristics, this often gives clues for what they may be looking to purchase.

There are many uses for dongs and dildos. Small dongs and dildos are a great option for women, men, and couples who are new to sexual aids, used for warming-up to vaginal or anal intercourse. Remember that size is important and bigger is not always better. Length and thickness are also important. A woman can only be penetrated so deep before the cervix is touched. It is possible to bruise a woman’s cervix due to repeated thrusts with a penis/dong/ dildo that is too long. The inside of the vaginal wall is primarily stimulated for only the first 1-3 inches. A thicker penis/dong will result in more friction to that area and increase the sensation. Friction is only good until lubrication runs low and then the friction turns into an abrasion-causing pain. A dong or dildo should be comfortable and in the desired size, shape, texture and even weight for the person who is using it. This same information also applies to anal sex/toy play. A dong or dildo used for anal play must be comfortable for the person using it and lubrication must always be used. (Please note that specific information about anal play with dongs and/or toys is discussed in the “Anal Toys, Plugs and Probes” section of this guide.)