Reply #31: It really depends on the setup.

[Chovexani]

The most basic definition of polyamory is loving and sustaining relationships with more than one person at the same time, in a completely open and ethical manner.

There are many, many ways to practice it and an almost infinite number of setups depending on the relationship. I'm in what's called a polyfidelitous triad, meaning my relationship consists of three people and we are committed to each other (none of us have outside partners). We would not be opposed to a fourth but we are not actively looking for one, so we are for all intents and purposes a closed deal.

Some relationships are "V"s, in that one person is involved with two people but their lovers are not involved with each other. Some form communities of extended friends and lovers that resembles nothing so much as a web.

"Open relationships" are not really poly though, which is where some of the confusion lies. Polyamory, contrary to popular belief, is not the same as swinging or free love; it's not just about the sex, it's about love and commitment, however the partners define that. People who form a relationship around the idea that it's okay to sleep with other people as long as they don't fall in love are not poly. Polyamory is not just about fucking people but building and sustaining relationships.

...and a big fat disclaimer in that I am only speaking for myself and not everyone who is poly, etc.