Funny name, familiar device. Nope, it's not an exotic, ancient bird, though the use of a dildo is not stranger to ancient civilizations.
In fact, the origin of the term has multiple antecedents - one from the Italian word, "diletto", which means "a woman's delight", or the Old English word, "dill-doll", which referred to a "soothing doll".
And though it's been used to "cure" women of "hysteria", from the sexually progressive Ancient Greeks to the ultra-conservative Victorians, some women claim that this "doll" is anything but soothing -- rather, it's arousing and stimulating.
Still at a loss? Let's help you out. A dildo is a phallic-shaped object which, in modern day, comes under the category of "toys" for sexual pleasure. The word itself could possibly be a reference to the name give to the small, phallus-shaped peg used to lock an oar into position on a small boat.
Dildos today (at least, those used for sexual pleasure) are usually made of silicone and used to penetrate a woman vaginal and anal openings, though it can certainly be used by same-sex couples who are male.
It can be used for solo masturbation or coupled masturbation. Many couples also use it in foreplay, inserting it into one partner's mouth, like a mock blow-job. Even if a woman prefer female partners, there is an undeniable biological need that every woman feels to experience vaginal penetration and, if used correctly, vaginal orgasms.
Just ask the Ancient Greek men who would give their women olisbos, wooden or leather phallic devices meant for penetration while they were away at war. A useful substitution, don't you think?
Dildos today can do almost everything but wash your dishes. No, but seriously, DIY was invented for this sex toy (as in, "Dildo It Yourself"). To get started, you'll need to head to a pleasure shop.
Yes, you can purchase online but you really want to get a first feel for it in person. Choose a shape that turns you on or a color that you find stimulating or fun. When you make your purchase, you'll want to throw some water-based lube because silicone toys can get notoriously dry, fast. Lube up on the inside and outside.
When you finally bring home your new best friend, get comfy and start exploring. Keep your lube close at hand, especially if you're experimenting with anal penetration. Don't jam it in right away. Just like with penile penetration, you want to get yourself in the mood.
You can take time to test the feel of it on your intimate bits. If you're a woman, start by rubbing it through the folds and around your clit.
Go slow and take your time. It's also a good excuse to make sure your skin is not having some kind of allergic reaction to the silicone. Some people like to sterilize their toy by dipping it in hot boiled water (sans soap), both before and after their pleasure sessions.
When opening it for the first time, check to make sure the exterior is smooth, with no jagged edges or random holes. If you have a sexually transmitted disease, or you plan on sharing the toy, make sure to use a condom (yes, on it!).
We live in the best time in history -- and it's not because of the Internet (okay, well, not only because of that. Today, you can choose between vibrators, anal beads, vaginal and anal dildos, clitoral stimulators, sybians and strap-ons. You can use any of these toys for vaginal stimulation but if you plan on anal penetration, choose one that has a flare base and is smooth and seamless.
Once you're a pro, experiment with different sizes. And, if you're with a partner, you can even use a strap-on for the "bend over boyfriend", a move intended for heterosexual couples who want to engage in a little anal play for the boys.