For the uninitiated digital nomad, dating app Feeld can feel like an inside joke you weren’t briefed on. The acronyms, the open relationships, the hyper-specific desires, and the sudden realization that yes, there are names for things you never even considered. It’s… a lot.
But don’t worry. You’re in the right place.
This guide is your passport to navigating Feeld like a pro—whether you’re curious, open-minded, or just trying to figure out what “Unicorn” actually means without accidentally becoming one. And if you want the full glossary of Feeld terms, dating dynamics, and expert insights, my upcoming and occasionally hilarious ebook, The Digital Nomad’s Field Guide to Feeld & Other Dating Apps, has you covered.
Decoding Feeld: What Do These Terms Actually Mean?
Feeld operates in a world of labels, dynamics, and shorthand that can feel like a different language at first glance. Whether you’re exploring for the first time or looking to refine your approach, understanding the lingo is key to avoiding misunderstandings and finding what you’re actually into.
Let’s start with the basics.
ONS (One-Night Stand)
A one-time-only ticket to Pleasureville—no baggage, no morning-after avocado and toast (unless you really hit it off). Just two consenting adults sharing a moment, knowing that the only thing they’re committing to is the hot and steamy moment.
ENM (Ethical Non-Monogamy)
Think of it as relationship jazz—structured yet free-flowing, with everyone playing in harmony. ENM is about openly, honestly, and ethically engaging in multiple romantic or sexual connections, with clear communication as the conductor. If it sounds difficult to pull off, you’re probably right.
Poly (Polyamory)
Love isn’t a pie with limited slices—it’s a buffet where everyone’s invited. Polyamory is all about building multiple romantic relationships with honesty, consent, and often, a shared Google Calendar to keep it all, er, straight.
Mono (Monogamy)
A tried-and-true classic. Two people, one connection, and an agreement to keep it exclusive—whether for a lifetime or just a season. It’s about depth over breadth, emotional intimacy, and sometimes, the simple comfort of knowing your partner won’t be racking up loyalty points at the local STD clinic.
LTR (Long-Term Relationship)
For those playing the long game. Whether it’s “forever” or just “for the foreseeable future,” an LTR is about more than just chemistry—it’s about shared values, stability, and finding someone you actually want sending you boozy nipple pics at 2 A.M.
FWB (Friends with Benefits)
Like a playlist of greatest hits—fun, reliable, and no pressure to commit to the full album. FWB mixes friendship with intimacy, keeping things light and easy while still enjoying all the perks.
NSA (No Strings Attached)
Pure, uncomplicated fun with no future planning required. It’s like a vacation fling—you both know it’s temporary, but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable in the moment.
NB (Non-Binary)
Gender? Not a box to check, but a whole rainbow of colors to explore. Non-binary folks exist beyond the male/female binary, embracing fluidity, androgyny, or identities that don’t fit neatly into traditional categories.
Switch
Why pick one lane when you can drive both? Switches enjoy both dominant and submissive roles, shifting gears based on their mood, partner, or the energy of the moment. Versatility is the name of the game, for pleasure and for pain.
Dom/Sub (Dominant/Submissive)
Power dynamics, but make it consensual. Whether it’s playful teasing or full-on BDSM structures, the Dom takes charge, the Sub follows, and both thrive on the exchange—so long as the rules of engagement are crystal clear.
Pan (Pansexual)
Love and attraction, without the gender filter. Pansexuals are drawn to people, not categories—meaning your identity doesn’t determine your dateability. It’s about the connection, plain and simple.
Sapiosexual
Brains = hot. A sharp wit, deep conversations, and mind-expanding debates are the real turn-ons here. If intelligence gets you tingling, you might just be a sapiosexual.
Solo Poly (Solo Polyamory)
Polyamory, but with an independent streak. Solo poly individuals engage in multiple romantic or sexual relationships while prioritizing personal autonomy—they typically don’t seek cohabitation, shared finances, or hierarchical relationships. Think of it as love without the entanglements of traditional partnerships, where each connection stands on its own terms.
Unicorn
A highly sought-after individual—usually a single, bisexual woman—who is open to dating or engaging with couples. The term comes from the idea that they are rare and elusive. In reality, many prefer to be treated as people, not mythical creatures with predefined roles and a corkscrew-like spiral shooting from their forehead.
Final Swipe: Navigating Feeld Like a Pro
By now, you’ve got the basics down—no more nodding along while secretly Googling acronyms mid-convo. Whether you’re here for curiosity, connection, or a little bit of everything, Feeld is a space where honesty, openness, and clear communication reign supreme.
But let’s be real—understanding the lingo is just the beginning. The real magic happens when you approach the scene with confidence, respect, and a willingness to explore (while keeping boundaries in check).
And if you’re ready to dive even deeper—decoding profiles, mastering conversations, and sidestepping rookie mistakes—my upcoming ebook, The Digital Nomad’s Field Guide to Feeld & Other Dating Apps: A Glossary of Kink, Polyamory, and Open-Minded Dating Terms for Remote Workers has you covered. Think of it as your passport to the Feeld universe, complete with the insights, humor, and no-nonsense advice you need to navigate it like a pro.
So go forth, swipe boldly, and remember: the best connections start with curiosity and a damn good bio.
Got a weird and wonderful term or title you think I should include in my ebook, The Digital Nomad’s Field Guide to Feeld & Other Dating Apps? Drop me a line and let me know!
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