Throuple
A throuple — or triad — is a committed romantic relationship between three people, all of whom are involved with one another.
A throuple — a blend of "three" and "couple," also called a triad — is a committed relationship between three people. Unlike a couple who occasionally invite a third for play, a throuple is an ongoing relationship in which all three share a genuine bond.
Triads take different shapes. In a closed triad the three are exclusive with one another; in others, one or more partners may also see people outside. What matters is that all three relationships are acknowledged and consensual.
Building a throuple asks for the same foundations as any relationship, multiplied: communication, fairness and attention to everyone's needs so no one feels like an afterthought. Compersion and clear agreements help three people thrive together.
Frequently asked
No. A threesome is a sexual encounter; a throuple is an ongoing, committed three-person relationship.
They mean the same thing — three people in a mutual relationship. Triad is simply the more traditional polyamory term.