Throuple - meaning and definition
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Definition
A romantic relationship involving three people who are all partnered with one another.
At a glance
- A romantic relationship of three people who are all partnered with one another.
- Often also called a triad.
- The depth of each connection within it can differ.
- Throuples may be closed or open to other partners.
In detail
The word blends "three" and "couple". In a throuple, often called a triad, each person usually has a relationship with both others, although the depth of each connection can differ.
Throuples may be closed, as in polyfidelity, or open to other partners. They often discuss practical matters such as living arrangements, decision-making and how to avoid any one person feeling left out.
In a sentence
- We're a throuple, so we're looking for a flat with three bedrooms and one big kitchen.
- Being in a throuple means scheduling is a team sport.
Where the word comes from
A blend of three and couple. It became widely used in the 2010s, helped by media coverage of three-person relationships.
Not to be confused with
- Unicorn
A unicorn is usually a single person sought by a couple, while a throuple describes an established three-way relationship.
Common questions
What is the difference between a throuple and a V?
In a throuple, or triad, all three people are partnered with each other. In a V, one person has two partners who are not romantically involved with each other.