Monogamish

Monogamish refers to a relationship agreement in which two people are in a relationship that is not "wide open," but also not fully monogamous. In effect, it is a relationship that is monogamous, but with consensual exceptions, or a relationship that, while effectively monogamous, does not resemble the strict one-partner relationship that standard monogamy requires.

For example, some monogamish couples will take on a third partner or couple, or will consent to one or both partners having a night out with sex being involved. Others may consent to monogamy while they are together, but allow for "no strings sex" when they are apart for an extended period of time. All of this is communicated and negotiated with boundaries and clear limits set. Breaking rules may also include consequences that can lead to the relationship being terminated .

This term was coined by relationship columnist Dan Savage in 2011. Another, less common, term for monogamish is semi-open relationship.

Related Terms

• Monogamous
• Polyamorous
• Open Relationship
• Swinging
• Polyfidelity
• Relationship Anarchy
• Don't Ask, Don't Tell