Disambiguation

Brand is used in at least three senses within Gorean vocabulary. In the novels it denotes a fictional permanent mark of unfree status. In contemporary community practice it may refer to symbolic marks, consensual tattoos, or purely literary references. It is distinct from branding practices in other subcultures with their own histories and safeguards.

Brand refers, in the Gorean setting, to a permanent mark placed upon the body of a slave, most often on the thigh, to signify their status. In the novels, brands may follow specific designs associated with particular houses or types of service. In contemporary Gorean community practice, references to branding cover a wide range: purely symbolic marks, temporary marks, jewellery, tattoos consensually chosen, or the practice may be treated purely as literary vocabulary without any physical act.

The brand is a recurring image in Gorean literature and community iconography.

The Lexicon documents the term as it appears in literary and community vocabulary and does not describe or endorse any specific physical practice.