A consensual relationship in which one person, often younger, receives financial support, gifts, or lifestyle perks from a wealthier partner in exchange for companionship, intimacy, or both. The arrangement is usually ongoing and openly negotiated rather than a one-time transaction.
People are drawn to this dynamic for practical and emotional reasons that vary widely: financial stability, mentorship, the thrill of a clear power and age gap, or simply a relationship structure with explicit terms instead of guesswork. Real arrangements range from near-platonic companionship to full romantic and sexual involvement, and the boundaries are set by the two people involved.
Worth knowing: Because money and power are unevenly distributed, both people should talk early and often about what is expected, what is off limits, and how either can exit without pressure or retaliation.
Also called: sugar daddy, sugar mama, sugar baby, splenda baby, sugar relationship, mutually beneficial arrangement, financial domination
