Metamour
Updated:A metamour is a term used in polyamorous or ethically non-monogamous relationships to describe your partner's other partner(s) with whom you are not directly romantically or sexually involved. Essentially, it's your partner's partner. The term comes from the Greek "meta" (meaning beyond or after) and "amour" (meaning love).
Additional Information
Metamour relationships can vary widely in their dynamics. Some metamours may develop close friendships, while others might have limited interaction. The concept of metamours is central to many polyamorous relationship structures and emphasizes the interconnectedness of multiple partners within a polyamorous network, often referred to as a "polycule."
Communication, respect, and boundaries are crucial in managing metamour relationships. Many polyamorous communities encourage "compersion," which is the feeling of joy one experiences when their partner is happy in another relationship.
Examples
Alice is dating both Bob and Charlie. Bob and Charlie are metamours to each other.
David and Emma have never met, but they're metamours because they're both dating Fran.