What is the best definition of polygamy?
Definition of polygamy 1 : marriage in which a spouse of either sex may have more than one mate at the same time — compare polyandry, polygyny. 2 : the state of being polygamous.
What does polygamy mean in history?
Polygamy means multiple spouses. The most common form is polygyny, where a man can have many wives. Less common, but found in some societies such as Tibet, is polyandry, where a woman can have many husbands.
What does polygamy mean in anthropology?
Anthropologically, polygamy is defined as marriage between one person and two or more spouses simultaneously. It exists in two main forms: polygyny, where one man is married to several women, and polyandry, where one woman is married to several men.
What does the Greek word polygamy mean?
often married
Polygamy comes from the Late Greek word polygamos, meaning “often married.” While viewed as controversial in the Western world, polygamy is a custom that’s been practiced by humans throughout history, and is still practiced in many places.
Who created polygamy?
Joseph Smith
Beginning of polygamy Founded by Joseph Smith in 1830, the Mormon movement from its beginnings offered a unique perspective on the religious role of men. One of the most influential events in the life of Joseph Smith was the death of his 25-year-old brother Alvin in 1823.
Who coined the term polygamy?
“sexual protoplasmic body,” 1880, coined 1878 by German cytologist Eduard Strasburger (1844-1912), the widespread attribution of the word’s coinage to Mendel being apparently erroneous. From Greek. See also -gamy.
What is difference between polygyny and polygamy?
Polygamy is the practice of having more than one spouse simultaneously – from Greek: polys – many, gamos – marriage. Polygyny is the practice of having more than one wife simultaneously – from Greek – polys – many, gyne – woman or wife.
What is the root word in the word polygamy?
polygamy (n.) “marriage with more than one spouse,” 1590s, from Late Latin polygamia, from Late Greek polygamia “polygamy,” from polygamos “often married,” from polys “many” (see poly-) + gamos “marriage” (see gamete).
When was the word polygamy invented?
Etymology. Recorded since 1591, from Late Latin polygamia, from Ancient Greek πολυγαμία (polugamía), itself from πολύγαμος (polúgamos, “married to many”), from πολύς (polús, “many”) + γάμος (gámos, “marriage”).
What is the purpose of polygamy?
Why Do People Practice Polygamy? There are many reasons that people may engage in polygamy. These reasons may be religious or societal purposes, including stability, security, companionship, economic resources, reproduction, or love. Historically, polygamy was practiced to protect widows and orphans during war times.
Is defined as a male married to several wives quizlet?
A polygynous marriage is a marriage in which one man has multiple wives.
What is an endogamous marriage?
Definition of endogamy : marriage within a specific group as required by custom or law.