polygamy etymology

Etymology

  • From Greek polýgamos, from polýs ("many") + gámos ("marriage").

Meaning and Origin

  • Polygamy refers to a form of marriage in which a person has multiple spouses at the same time. It is distinct from polygyny, which specifically refers to marriage of one man to multiple women, and polyandry, which refers to marriage of one woman to multiple men.
  • The term "polygamy" was first used in the 16th century by European explorers and missionaries to describe social structures they encountered in non-Western cultures.
  • The practice of polygamy is rooted in ancient traditions and has existed in various forms throughout history in many parts of the world. It is often associated with religious beliefs or social norms that support or tolerate multiple marriages.
  • In some cultures, polygamy is considered a desirable or honorable practice, allowing for the distribution of resources, the expansion of family ties, or the maintenance of social stability.
  • However, in many modern societies, polygamy is illegal or highly regulated due to concerns about gender equality, child welfare, and individual rights.

polygamy relate terms

  • polygyny

    Etymology Polygyny is derived from the Greek words poly meaning many gynē me

  • poly

    Etymology The word poly comes from the Greek word polys which means many Meaning

  • endogamy

    Etymology The term endogamy is derived from the Greek words endo within gamos

  • abolish

    Etymology The word abolish comes from the Old French word aboliss or abolir which

  • wedlock

    Etymology The word wedlock is derived from the Old English words wǣdd pledge promi

  • union

    Etymology The word union derives from the Old French term union 12th century which

  • marriage

    Etymology Old English marian noun Meaning to marry take a wife Proto Germanic

  • matrimony

    Etymology The word matrimony originates from the Latin word matrimonium which is for

  • compass

    Etymology Old French compas Latin compassus stride Vulgar Latin compassare to

  • arsenal

    Etymology French arsenal Latin arsēnālis Greek ἀρσενικός arsenikos Me

  • flux

    Etymology The word flux is derived from the Latin word fluxus meaning a flowing

  • exquisite

    Etymology The word exquisite comes from the Latin word exquisitus meaning chosen ou