polycule

A polycule is a social network of three or more people who are connected through romantic or sexual relationships. The term blends polyamory and molecule to describe how individuals (nodes) are linked by intimate connections (edges), forming a dynamic graph that can change over time as relationships form or end. A polycule emphasizes the pattern of relationships rather than any single couple within it.

Polycule structures vary in size and complexity. Some consist of small groups such as trios or quartets, while others include many members with overlapping relationships. Relationships within a polycule may be hierarchical (for example, designated primary or secondary partners) or relatively egalitarian. Some polycules strive for “kitchen-table” polyamory, where all members know and interact with each other; others are more compartmentalized, with individuals not all acquainted.

Representations of polycules are common in instructional or social contexts and are often diagrammed as graphs to illustrate how members relate. Labels may indicate relationship types, boundaries, or timeframes. The concept is descriptive and analytical, used to understand and communicate the structure and dynamics of interconnected relationships rather than prescribe a particular arrangement.

In broader cultural contexts, polycules reflect values such as consent, communication, and negotiated boundaries that underpin many polyamorous communities. Privacy and discretion are considerations, as not all participants may wish to disclose their connections publicly. The term is widely used in online discussions and personal narratives to describe the network of interconnected relationships that extends beyond a single couple.