Definition and Meaning
Polygamy (noun) refers to the practice of having more than one spouse at the same time, most commonly in the context of marriage. It is typically recognized in certain cultures, religions, or legal systems and is most often associated with a man having multiple wives (polygyny), though it can also refer to a woman having multiple husbands (polyandry), though that is far less common.
Pronunciation
/pəˈlɪɡəmi/
Grammatical Formation
- Noun: polygamy
- Related adjectives: polygamous (e.g., a polygamous marriage), monogamous (opposite)
- Person noun: polygamist (a person who practices polygamy)
Word Comparisons
- Polygamy vs. Polyamory: Polygamy refers specifically to multiple spouses, often in a legal, cultural, or religious context. Polyamory is about multiple consensual romantic/sexual relationships without necessarily involving marriage.
- Polygamy vs. Monogamy: Monogamy means having only one spouse or romantic partner at a time. Polygamy involves more than one spouse simultaneously.
- Polygamy vs. Bigamy: Bigamy is the criminal act of marrying one person while still legally married to another. Polygamy may be legal or accepted in some cultures or religions.
Changes in Meaning with Prepositions
- Engaged in polygamy: “He was engaged in polygamy in a country where it’s permitted.”
- Practiced polygamy: “Historically, many societies practiced polygamy.”
- Outlawed polygamy: “The government outlawed polygamy in the 20th century.”
Real-life Examples
- In some parts of the world, polygamy is legal and tied to religious traditions, such as in some interpretations of Islam or certain African and Indigenous cultures.
- In the United States, polygamy has been practiced historically by some religious sects but is currently illegal under federal law.
- Popular culture, such as TV shows like Sister Wives, explores modern polygamous families.
Simple Explanation
Polygamy means being married to more than one person at the same time. It is different from cheating because it usually involves mutual consent in cultures where it’s allowed.
Common Collocations
- polygamous marriage
- practice polygamy
- religious polygamy
- cultural polygamy
- legalized polygamy
- polygamy laws
- anti-polygamy legislation
- polygamy and gender roles
- polygamous family
- polygamist leader
Idiomatic Usage
While polygamy itself isn’t an idiom, it appears in discussions like:
- “One husband, many wives” – referring to traditional polygynous structures
- “Polygamy under fire” – used in debates about its legality or ethics
- “Living the polygamous lifestyle” – phrase seen in media or interviews
Sample Sentences
- Polygamy is legal in some countries and banned in others.
- The tribe has practiced polygamy for generations as part of their tradition.
- Debates around polygamy often focus on women’s rights and consent.
- Not everyone in a polygamous marriage feels equally valued.
Connection to Sexuality
Polygamy is not primarily defined by sexuality, but it is connected to sexual and marital relationships. It involves intimate partnerships, usually within heterosexual frameworks, though the structure can vary. Sexual activity is usually part of these marriages, but polygamy is more about family structure and marital arrangements than sexual identity or orientation.
Synonyms
plural marriage, multi-spouse marriage, polygyny, polyandry (specific forms)
Antonyms
monogamy, celibacy, single marriage
Related Terms
polyamory, polygamous, polygamist, monogamy, bigamy, marriage, relationship structure, cultural tradition
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