polygamy

polygamy Definition

po·lyga·my (pə lig′ə mē, pō-)

noun

the state or practice of having two or more spouses at the same time; plural marriage
Zool. the practice of mating with more than one of the opposite sex

Etymology: Fr polygamie < Gr polygamia: see poly- & -gamy

polygamy Related Forms

po·lyg′a·mist noun

polygamy Synonyms

polygamy Law Definition

The condition of having more than a single spouse at one time.

polygamy Usage Examples

Converse of object

allow: He pointed out that even in societies which allow polygamy, monogamy is still the most universally prevalent form of marriage.
condone: Is there any suggestion that TEC would be within its rights in seeking to " deal " with the Nigerians for condoning polygamy?
outlaw: The Domestic Relations Bill recognizes that marriages in Uganda shall be either monogamous or polygamous bur does not outlaw polygamy.

polygamy Quotes

So though a virgin, yet a bride To every Grace, she justified A chaste polygamy, and died.

—Carew,Thomas

In pious times, ere priestcraft did begin, Before polygamy was made a sin.

—Dryden,John

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