The term 'Non-Monogamy' can apply to many different relationship configurations such as:

• Polyamory

• Relationship Anarchy

• Open Relationship

• Swinging

& this isn't an exhaustive list! Someone may identify with one or more of these terms AND have different definitions/agreements that make up their relationship style.

What does being polyamorous mean?

"Polyamory is a form of ethical, or consensual, non-monogamy that involves having romantic or sexual relationships with multiple partners at the same time. Ethical, or consensual, non-monogamy describes relationships in which all parties are aware of and consent to practice non-monogamy."

Polyamorous Relationship types include:

• Hierarchical: Hierarchical polyamory involves a hierarchy system that includes primary and secondary partners. Primary partners take priority over other partners or relationships.

• Non-Hierarchical: Non-hierarchical polyamory doesn’t involve any ranking of partners, which means that every relationship or partner, while unique, is viewed equally. So, someone in this type of polyamorous relationship with multiple partners would consider these partners equal, even if the relationships all function differently.

• Solo-Poly: When someone is solo-poly — whether single, dating, or otherwise — the primary focus of their major life decisions is themselves, rather than the relationship.

• Polycules: Poly webs, also called poly families or sometimes polycules, describe people who are all connected through polyamorous lifestyles. People who are part of poly webs or families aren’t always necessarily romantically involved with each other — sometimes they’re simply connected through their various partners.

What are some other terms related to Non-Monogamy you've heard? Comment below!

Source: Healthline. Read the FULL Guide to Polyamorous Relationships here.