monogamy

[muh-nog-uh-mee]

noun

1. marriage with only one person at a time.

2. Zoology.,  the practice of having only one mate.

3. the practice of marrying only once during life.

monogamy

/ mɒˈnɒɡəmɪ /

noun

1. the state or practice of having only one husband or wife over a period of time Compare bigamy polygamy digamy

2. zoology the practice of having only one mate

monogamy

1. A form of marriage in which one man is united with one woman. (Compare polyandry and polygamy.)

Other Word Forms

• monogamously adverb
• monogamous adjective
• monogamousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of monogamy¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from Late Latin monogamia, from Greek monogamía, equivalent to mono- + -gamy

Word History and Origins

Origin of monogamy¹

C17: via French from Late Latin monogamia, from Greek; see _mono- + _-gamy

Example Sentences

In a city where I once performed straightness and monogamy, I’m finally choosing what feels good — with her, her wife and the queer community that keeps unfolding around me.

From Los Angeles Times

While giving up physical intimacy might sound like the opposite of titillating, those familiar with the demands of monogamy and motherhood could recognize the erotic potential of solitude.

From Los Angeles Times

Enveloped in the arms of the man I loved who valued monogamy and proudly introduced me as his girlfriend to every acquaintance, I felt an uneasiness.

From Los Angeles Times

A very different type of Tory, Norris advocated for gay rights and had a relaxed approach to monogamy.

From BBC

“Not every spy is to your flavor of monogamy,” Kathryn tells George when he organizes a dinner party to begin sniffing out the mole under false pretenses.

From Salon

Related Words

• abstinence 
• decency 
• virginity 

When To Use

What does monogamy mean?

Monogamy most technically refers to the state or practice of being married to only one person at a time.The word monogamy is also commonly used in a more general way to refer to the state of being in a romantic or sexual relationship with only one person at a time. Less commonly, monogamy can mean the practice of being married only once throughout one’s life.In the study of animals, monogamy refers to the practice of having only one mate.A person or animal that engages in monogamy can be described as monogamous. A person who practices or advocates for monogamy can be called a monogamist.Example: Monogamy may be traditional in our modern society, but this hasn’t always been the case in cultures around the world.