CultureAugust 17, 2026

polyamorous

pah-lee-AM-er-us

Definition

The state or practice of engaging in multiple romantic or sexual relationships with the consent of all involved parties.

Etymology

The word combines the Greek prefix 'poly-' (meaning many) with the Latin 'amor' (meaning love), appearing in modern English in the late 20th century to describe non-monogamous relationship structures.

In the news

The word is listed among several identity labels Dawn Heilung uses to describe themselves, illustrating their non-binary approach to self-definition and encompassing their personal experience.

BUSINESS ‘Punk, intense and all-encompassing’: Chicagoan Dawn Heilung brings trans artists into focus

Read the full article ↗

Windy City Times

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