A “pervert” in BDSM is not a role, but more of a label or identity that may be used to acknowledge sexual interests that mainstream society may judge as deviant. Historically, it has frequently been used in derogatory way to refer to any person whose sexual tastes are different to the mainstream (including homosexual activity). However, it is now frequently reclaimed by kinky individuals as a badge of pride, and a way to embrace recognizably non-mainstream desires freely. It can even be employed ironically, but it typically has no structural meaning within kink dynamics like other formal roles do.
Origins of the Term
"Pervert" - both the noun and verb - come from from the Latin "perversus," or turning away from what is right. In old French "pervers" is "unnatural or degenerate."
