Open relationship - meaning and definition
Alsoopen marriageopen coupleopen partnershipopen dating
Definition
A committed relationship in which the partners agree that one or both may have sexual or romantic involvement with other people.
At a glance
- A committed couple who agree that outside sexual or romantic connections are allowed.
- Rules vary: some allow only casual encounters, others allow ongoing dating.
- Agreements often cover disclosure, time and safer sex.
- It works best when both partners genuinely want it and revisit the rules over time.
In detail
Open relationships usually centre on an existing couple who keep their commitment to each other while allowing outside connections. The details vary widely: some couples allow only casual encounters, some allow ongoing dating, and some have rules about disclosure, time or safer sex.
Open relationships work best when both partners genuinely want the arrangement and revisit their agreements as feelings change. When only one partner wants to open things up, honest conversation and sometimes professional support can help both people understand what they need.
In a sentence
- We've been in an open relationship for two years, and my partner knows I'm on this app.
- Before we open our relationship, I'd like us to agree on what we'll tell each other.
Where the word comes from
The idea of an open marriage was popularised by a 1972 book of that name by Nena and George O'Neill. Open relationship later became the broader term for couples who are not married.
Not to be confused with
- Polyamory
Polyamory emphasises multiple loving relationships, while an open relationship may be mainly about outside sexual connections.
Common questions
What if only one partner wants an open relationship?
This is common. Honest conversations about what each person needs, without pressure, are the usual first step. Some couples find that a counsellor who understands non-monogamy helps them talk it through.
Is an open relationship the same as polyamory?
Not quite. Open relationships usually centre on one couple with outside connections, often casual. Polyamory usually means more than one ongoing, loving relationship.