Ethical Nonmonogamy
An umbrella term for consensual, non-exclusive relationships where all parties agree to multiple partners, including open marriages; it emphasizes transparency and mutual agreement rather than secrecy or cheating.
An umbrella term for various consensual, non-exclusive relationships where all parties agree to multiple romantic or sexual partners. It includes arrangements like open marriages, where couples may be romantically monogamous but not sexually exclusive, and distinguishes itself from cheating by emphasizing transparency and mutual agreement among everyone involved.
What this means in real life
A married couple might agree that each partner can date other people, provided they discuss new relationships beforehand and follow agreed-upon rules—like always practicing safe sex or not staying overnight with other partners on weeknights.
What it isn’t
It is not the same as an open relationship where one partner has freedom but the other doesn't, nor is it cheating with permission. The core requirement is genuine, informed consent from all parties—not just turning a blind eye to infidelity.
Commonly misused online
Social media often conflates it with polyamory or uses it as a blanket term for any non-monogamous setup, ignoring that the 'ethical' part specifically means active communication and consent, not just multiple partners.
Based on 1 reference source, including NIH material. Last verified July 11, 2026.