Compersion: what it means
Feeling happy because a partner is happy with someone else. It is often described as the opposite of jealousy, though many people feel both at different times.
In practice
Compersion is the warm feeling of being glad that a partner is happy with someone else. Many people feel compersion and jealousy at different times, sometimes on the same day. Both are normal, and talking about them openly is part of healthy non-monogamy.
Consent and safety
Ethical non-monogamy depends on honesty and ongoing consent from everyone affected, not just the people who proposed it. Agreements can be renegotiated, sexual-health conversations matter, and anyone can change their mind. For meeting someone new, see our safety tips.
Related terms
Learn more
This term is one of the questions in the Kink Glossary Quiz. Ten random questions, an explanation after every answer, and a 🎓 Glossary Grad badge for members who score 8 or more.
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General education for adults 18+, not medical or legal advice. Definitions vary between communities; when in doubt, ask your partner what a word means to them.