polygamy

/pəˈlɪgəmi/

/pəˈlɪgəmi/

Other forms: polygamies

Polygamy is the practice of being married to more than one husband or wife at a time.

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. It was a distinguishing characteristic of early Mormonism — founder Joseph Smith had more than 30 wives. In zoology, monogamy, or having only one mate, is rare, while polygamy, the mating habit of animals with numerous mates, is much more common.

Definitions of polygamy

1. noun

   having more than one spouse at a time
   types:

   polyandry

   having more than one husband at a time

   polygyny

   having more than one wife at a time

   type of:

   marriage, matrimony, spousal relationship, union, wedlock

   the state of being a married couple voluntarily joined for life (or until divorce)