Queer Platonic (Partner/Relationship)

Aka QPP/QPR

Our Definition

a significant relationship that is neither romantic or sexual in nature, often involving a greater degree of commitment and entanglement than is considered typical for friendships. People in Queer Platonic Relationships can be of any orientation. 


Real Life Examples

Celeste and Tansy live together and raise children together. They are committed to each other and their shared future. They are not romantically or sexually involved with one another.

Harold is asexual and aromantic. He has 2 life partners with whom he owns and operates a small farm. They all share a bed. 

Zed and Isla are musicians who write music together and travel the world playing music. They understand each other in a way that seems like they can read each other’s minds. They considered adding romance and sex to their relationship but decided that they were incompatible in this way. They both have those sorts or intimate relationships with others. 

Common Practices

Everyone is different! You'll see this repeated throughout our website and glossary. Common practices for those in queer platonic relationships include, but certainly aren't limited to:

  • Dealing with assumptions that the relationship is sexual and romantic. 
  • Being met with confusion when you explain the relationship to others 
  • Struggling to find a term that correctly identifies the person’s role in your life (ie, “friend” is wrong but “partner” is also sometimes misleading)

Got a beef with our definition?

Of course we don't speak for everyone! If you feel we are missing additional info, context, facts, history, or data, please email us and let us know!


While we can't promise every suggestion will make it, we'll always be working to keep this glossary thorough and inclusive!