Short answer
This glossary summarizes polyamory and ENM terms in Poliamore’s voice. Definitions are educational; every network of relationships lives them differently.
Terms
- Polyamory
- Having or being open to more than one affectionate relationship at once, with knowledge and consent of everyone involved.
- Ethical non-monogamy (ENM)
- Umbrella for non-exclusive relationships based on honesty and consent—including polyamory, open relationships and relationship anarchy.
- Open relationship
- Usually a dyad that agrees to allow other connections under their own agreements. See open relationship.
- Relationship anarchy
- Each bond is defined on its own terms, without imposed hierarchy or mandatory labels. See relationship anarchy.
- Compersion
- Joy at seeing someone you love happy in another connection. Related: jealousy and compersion.
- Jealousy
- A valid emotion; in polyamory it is often treated as information about needs, not failure.
- Agreements
- What people negotiate about how they live their connections; revisited over time.
- Metamour
- Your partner’s partner, with whom you do not have a direct romantic bond.
- Polycule
- The network of people linked by polyamorous relationships.
- Solo poly
- A polyamorous person who does not seek a “primary” partner or necessarily cohabitation.
- Kitchen table / parallel
- Styles with more or less closeness among metamours.
- NRE
- New relationship energy—the early-bond rush.
- Check-in
- A periodic conversation to review how everyone feels.
Guides · How it works · Safety 18+ · Glossary · FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is this glossary exhaustive?
No. We cover frequent terms from our guides. Email support if one is missing.
Can I reuse these definitions?
Yes for personal and educational use. We do not invent studies or figures here.
This page is informational and does not replace professional advice. Poliamore is for adults 18+ only.