Swinging: Definition, Practices, and Libertine Vocabulary

What is Swinging?

Swinging isn’t just for heterosexuals. Gay couples also enjoy exchanging partners. It’s a way to spice up their sex life, to try new things without cheating on their guy.

The Vocabulary of Swinging: Understanding the Practices

What is “2+2”?

In the libertine scene, there’s a whole vocabulary to describe different practices. ‘2+2’, for example, is when two couples exchange partners, but each new duo has sex in a separate room. Conversely, ‘side-by-side’ is when the two couples have sex next to each other, without exchanging partners.

What is “3+1”?

The ‘3+1’ is when one of the four participants is set aside, either to watch (voyeurism), or to be the center of attention and be taken by the other three (which is close to a gang bang).

What are Foursomes and Mélangisme?

There are also foursomes, where everyone has sex together. It’s a kind of small orgy. Swinging should not be confused with mélangisme, which is a ‘harder’ practice where the notions of couple and fidelity are completely abolished.