Partnered - meaning and definition
Alsoin a relationshipalready partnered
Definition
On a dating profile, a note that the person already has a partner and is dating with that partner's knowledge, typically as part of ethical non-monogamy.
At a glance
- Signals that the person already has a partner who knows they are dating.
- Usually part of ethical non-monogamy.
- Many apps let users link their profile to a partner's.
- It is reasonable to ask how their relationship and agreements work.
In detail
Many apps let non-monogamous users mark themselves as partnered or link their profile to a partner's. It is a transparency signal: you are not being asked to help someone cheat.
If you are interested in someone partnered, it is reasonable to ask how their relationship works, what agreements they have and whether their partner knows they are dating.
In a sentence
- Partnered and poly, my nesting partner and I both date independently.
- Before we meet, can I ask how things work with your partner?
Not to be confused with
- Sneaky link
A sneaky link is kept secret; being openly partnered is the opposite.
Common questions
Does 'partnered' on a profile mean someone is cheating?
No. It usually means the opposite: the person is being open about having a partner who knows they are dating. If you want reassurance, ask about their agreements.
What is a nesting partner?
A partner someone lives with or shares a home with, a term common in polyamorous communities.