Polyamory

Polyamory (from Greek πολύ poly, "many, several", and Latin amor, "love") is typically the practice of, or desire for, intimate relationships where individuals may have more than one partner, with the knowledge and consent of all partners.It has been described as "consensual, ethical, and responsible non-monogamy". However, the meaning of polyamory is also an issue of ongoing debate. For example, although polyamory is typically defined as a relationship practice or approach to relationships, some believe that it should also be considered an orientation or identity (analogous to sexual orientation or gender identity).

Polyamory is sometimes used in a broader sense, as an umbrella term that covers various forms of consensual multi-partner relationships, or forms of consensual non-exclusive sexual and/or romantic relationships. Polyamorous arrangements are varied, reflecting the choices and philosophies of the individuals involved, but they tend to emphasize certain themes or values, such as love, intimacy, honesty, integrity, equality, communication, and commitment. As of July 2009^[update], it was estimated that more than 500,000 polyamorous relationships existed in the United States.

People who identify as polyamorous typically reject the view that sexual and relational exclusivity are necessary for deep, committed, long-term loving relationships. Those who are open to, or emotionally suited for, polyamory may embark on a polyamorous relationship when single or already in a monogamous or open relationship.

The word polyamorous came to prominence in an article by Morning Glory Zell-Ravenheart, "A Bouquet of Lovers", published in May 1990 in Green Egg Magazine, where it appeared as "poly-amorous". In May 1992, Jennifer L. Wesp created the Usenet newsgroup alt.polyamory, and the Oxford English Dictionary cites the proposal to create that group as the first verified appearance of the word. The words "polyamory, -ous, and -ist" were added to the OED in 2006. In 1999, Zell-Ravenheart was asked by the editor of the OED to provide a definition of the term, and had provided it as The practice, state or ability of having more than one sexual loving relationship at the same time, with the full knowledge and consent of all partners involved. Polyamory is a less specific term than polygamy, the practice or condition of having more than one spouse.

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