A cuckold is the husband of an adulterous wife (or partner for unmarried companions) the wife of an adulterous husband is a cuckquean.

Cuckolding is a sexual practice or relationship dynamic, often within consensual non-monogamy, where one partner (usually a man in heterosexual contexts, though not exclusively) derives arousal or psychological stimulation from knowing that their partner is having sex with someone else.

There are a few key aspects to understand:

1. Consent and Communication

In consensual cuckolding, all parties involved (the person being "cuckolded," their partner, and often the third party) are aware of and agree to the arrangement. Open communication and clear boundaries are essential.

2. Psychological Dynamics

Motivations for cuckolding can vary widely and may include:

Erotic humiliation: The cuckold may enjoy feelings of submissiveness or being “less than” the third party.

Voyeurism: They may enjoy watching or hearing about the encounter.

Compersion: A sense of happiness or arousal from seeing a partner experience pleasure with someone else.

Dom/sub roles: It can be part of a larger BDSM dynamic, where power exchange is involved.

3. Different Styles

Cuckolding can take different forms, such as:

Hotwifing: Where a wife has sexual freedom, and the husband may or may not be involved directly.

Stag and vixen: A dynamic where a male (stag) enjoys seeing his partner (vixen) with others, often with less emphasis on humiliation.

Cuckquean: The female version, where a woman derives pleasure from her male partner being with others.

4. Fantasy vs. Reality

Some people enjoy cuckolding as a fantasy only, often through porn, erotica, or role-play — without any real-life involvement. Others practice it in real relationships with clear rules and boundaries.