open marriage

noun

: a marriage in which the partners agree to let each other have sexual partners outside the marriage

Examples of open marriage in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The film follows two couples whose friendship turns rocky when the husband of a divorcing couple sleeps with the wife of an open marriage couple. — Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 30 Mar. 2026 His character is in an open marriage with a writer-professor portrayed by Rachel Weisz. — New York Times, 14 Mar. 2026 Will this be the season of Bridgerton that introduces the concept of open marriages to Regency England? — Christina Grace Tucker, Vulture, 29 Jan. 2026 Taking on a partner in an open marriage, especially if a child and mutual source of income are involved, will likely present a certain requirement of effort for your heart and mind. — Goth Shakira contributing, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for open marriage

Word History

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of open marriage was in 1971

Rhymes for open marriage

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Browse Nearby Words

open market
open marriage
open mic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Open marriage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20marriage. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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