Arovague

Arovague, also called affecturomantic or neuroromantic, describes a romantic orientation on the aromantic spectrum. The term may be used by people whose experience of romantic attraction is wholly or partly connected to, or influenced by, their neurodivergence.

This may mean that romantic attraction is difficult to categorize, perceived differently, appears irregularly, or depends on factors such as sensory processing, communication, social situations, masking, hyperfocus, routines, or emotional safety. Arovague does not refer to one specific form of neurodivergence, but to an individual connection between neurodivergence and the experience of romantic attraction.

As with all terms relating to romantic orientation, it is a form of self-description. Arovague is not a medical diagnosis and does not replace diagnostic terms; it can help describe personal experience more precisely. Whether “arovague,” “affecturomantic,” “neuroromantic,” or another term feels accurate is for the individual to decide.