RikSpanks:
The Top/Dom keeps swishing the implement around in the air without actually striking the bottom/sub, apparently trying to make intimidating "whoosh" noises. This is boring. Also boring is the Top/Dom delivering a single stroke and then walking in slow circles around the bottom. Then he eventually gets around to dealing another stroke, then it's back to walking laps around her ... booooorrring.
I often use this trope in stories (not having any
actual experience you understand). The intention is exactly as you say, to exert dominance and increase the fear element. I would hazard a guess that if the spankee didn't know whether a stroke was to land or not it might be just as disconcerting to hear the swoosh.
Oh, yes, and Cats Yes, Dogs No, even in stew
I accept that in a video this doesn't work, because we can see that it's a dummy stroke. if a form of "tangio" was to be invented where you experienced the caning by sound and feel alone then it might be more appropriate