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 story follows a family unraveling amid open marriages, conspiracy and emotional turmoil. Maddie Connors, Los Angeles Times, 16 Mar. 2026 His character is in an open marriage with a writer-professor portrayed by Rachel Weisz. New York Times, 14 Mar. 2026 Carey turns to married friends Julie (Dakota Johnson) and Paul (director Michael Angelo Corvino), learns about their open marriage, and a complicated love trapezoid ensues. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 13 Feb. 2026 Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash As the Flynn family fractures under the strain of a failing open marriage and three daughters spiraling into dangerous secrets, their small coastal town is quietly dominated by a powerful shipping magnate no one dares to question. Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 31 Jan. 2026 The novel lovingly depicts a family succumbing to the pressures of an open marriage, teenage rebellion, and home ownership. Chloe Schama, Vogue, 24 Jan. 2026 According to Allen’s album, Harbour would’ve allegedly transgressed past the bounds of their open marriage. Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair, 22 Jan. 2026 His open marriage and affair with a student challenge social norms, reflecting Uranian rebellion and shock value. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 13 Jan. 2026 The album depicts feelings of betrayal in an open marriage, with lyrics repeatedly referring to a person named Madeline. Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 29 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined above

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

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Cite this Entry

“Open marriage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20marriage. Accessed 30 Mar. 2026.

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