Swinger Slang 101: 5 Lifestyle Terms to Know Before Your Next Event

New to the lifestyle or just want to brush up before your next event, party, or cruise? We’ve got you covered with five popular swinger terms that you’re bound to hear around the pool deck, in the playroom, or whispered over cocktails.

1. Soft Swap

This typically refers to couples who are open to playing with others but limit their activity to everything except full penetrative sex. Think of it as dipping a toe into the lifestyle waters.

2. Full Swap

This is when couples are comfortable going “all the way” with other partners—including intercourse. Everyone has boundaries, and this one just means they’re more open to exploration.

3. Unicorn

A magical creature—aka a single, bisexual woman who enjoys playing with couples. Unicorns are highly sought after in the lifestyle, and just like the mythical creature, she can be hard to find.

4. Vibe Check

Not just a TikTok trend. In the lifestyle, this means reading the room or a couple’s energy to see if there’s mutual interest or if it’s best to keep things friendly.

5. The Lifestyle

It’s a broad term that refers to the swinger or ethically non-monogamous (ENM) community as a whole. You’ll hear it a lot—used casually to describe the social scene, events, mindset, or the community itself.

Have a lifestyle term you’re unsure of? Drop your question below or send us a message—we’re always here to help!