polygamy

UK: pəˈlɪɡəmi | US: pəˈlɪɡəmi

Definition

  1. n. the practice or custom of having more than one wife or husband at the same time.

Structure
poly <many, from Greek *polys*>gamy <marriage, from Greek *gamos*>
Etymology

The word polygamy originates from Greek, combining poly- (meaning "many") and -gamy (meaning "marriage"). It reflects the concept of multiple marital unions, historically prevalent in various cultures. The term entered English via Late Latin polygamia, retaining its original structural logic.

Examples

  1. Some ancient cultures practiced polygamy as a social norm.

  2. Polygamy is legally prohibited in many modern societies.

  3. The debate over polygamy often involves religious and ethical arguments.

  4. Anthropologists study polygamy to understand its cultural implications.

  5. In some species, polygamy is observed as a natural mating strategy.