noun
top; penetrative partner; seme
Slang term used in erotic contexts, especially in BL (boys' love) and adult media, for the character who takes the active, penetrative role. Derived from 竿 (さお, 'rod') + 役 (やく, 'role').
See also: 竿 (さお)
このBL漫画では、竿役のキャラがとても優しい。
In this BL manga, the top character is very gentle.
同人誌の竿役はいつも同じ声優が演じているイメージがある。
I have the impression that the same voice actor always plays the top in doujinshi.