Polyamory means having multiple romantic relationships at the same time, with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. An open relationship is a relationship where the parties are free to take new partners. The terms both fall under the heading of “ethical non-monogamy,” but they are not synonymous.

What is an open relationship vs polyamory?

Polyamory focuses on having emotionally engaged, supportive relationships with multiple people, often simultaneously. Open relationships focus on having one core romantic relationship but multiple sexual partners.

What is an open relationship called?

Another name for an open relationship is “consensual non-monogamy.” Both parties agree that a relationship is non-monogamous. “Non-monogamy,” “polyamory,” and “polyamorous relationship” also refer to an open relationship. “Polygamy” refers to having more than one spouse at the same time.