open marriage

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Definition

Noun: A marital arrangement in which both partners mutually agree that each may engage in sexual relationships with other people, without this being considered infidelity or a breach of trust. The concept is based on principles of honesty, consent, and the absence of possessive jealousy within the primary relationship.

Usage

The term describes a specific, consensual structure for a marriage. It is typically used in sociological, psychological, or personal contexts when discussing non-monogamous relationship models. - It functions as a countable noun (e.g., an open marriage, open marriages). - It often appears in discussions contrasting traditional monogamy with various forms of ethical non-monogamy.

Examples
  • After many conversations, they decided to try an open marriage to explore connections with others while maintaining their commitment to each other.
  • Their open marriage has clear rules about communication and safety that both partners respect.
  • The book examines the challenges and satisfactions reported by couples in open marriages.
Advanced Usage
  • The term is often part of broader discussions on ethical non-monogamy or consensual non-monogamy, where all parties are aware and agree to the relationship structure.
  • It is distinct from infidelity or cheating, as it is based on prior mutual agreement and transparency.
Variants and Related Words
  • Open relationship (n): A broader term for a committed romantic relationship, not necessarily a marriage, with the same agreement on external sexual partners.
  • Polyamory (n): The practice of engaging in multiple romantic and/or sexual relationships with the consent of all people involved. An open marriage may be a form of polyamory, but polyamory often emphasizes multiple loving relationships, not solely sexual ones.
  • Monogamish (adj., informal): Describing a primarily monogamous relationship that occasionally allows for sexual experiences with others.
Synonyms
  • Consensually non-monogamous marriage
  • Non-exclusive marriage (less common)
Related Phrases
  • To have an open marriage: The verbal phrase used to describe being in such an arrangement.
    • They have an open marriage, which works well for their lifestyle.
  • To open a marriage: The verbal phrase describing the process of transitioning from a monogamous marriage to an open one.
    • After ten years, they decided to open their marriage.
Noun
  1. a marriage in which each partner is free to enter into extraneous sexual relationships without guilt or jealousy from the other