-gamy
suffix
UK/-ɡə.mi/US/-ɡə.mi/
Used to form nouns indicating a marriage or mating system (from the Greek ‘gamos,’ meaning ‘marriage’). Examples include ‘monogamy’ (the practice of marrying one partner) and ‘polygamy’ (the practice of marrying multiple partners).
Example Sentences
Monogamy is a widely practiced form of -gamy in which one individual remains committed to a single partner.
Polygamy entails having multiple spouses simultaneously, which is legally recognized in only a few regions around the world.
Bigamy refers to entering into a second marriage while still legally married to another individual.
Cultural norms around exogamy require individuals to marry outside their social group or kinship circle.
Endogamy, in contrast, involves marrying within a specific group, often preserving cultural or religious traditions.
The term -gamy is vital for sociological discussions on how societies organize family structures and inheritance systems.
In many countries, polygamy or bigamy is illegal and subject to legal prosecution, reflecting the significant cultural and legal emphasis placed on monogamy.
Anthropologists and historians study variations of -gamy to understand how different forms of marriage have shaped social hierarchies, lineage structures, and community bonds throughout human history.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A suffix denoting marriage, mating, or reproductive systems.The suffix '-gamy' is used in words to describe systems of marriage, mating, or reproduction. Examples include 'monogamy' (marriage to one partner), 'polygamy' (marriage to multiple partners), and 'heterogamy' (reproduction involving different types of gametes). It specifies the structure, nature, or process of union or reproduction and is commonly used in biological, sociological, and anthropological contexts.
Alternatives
Alternatives to '-gamy' include phrases like 'system of marriage' or 'type of mating,' such as 'single partner system' instead of 'monogamy.'
Writing
In writing, '-gamy' provides a concise way to describe complex mating or marriage systems. For instance, 'endogamy' clearly refers to marriage within a specific group or community.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-gamy' appears less frequently but may occur in terms like 'monogamy' or 'polygamy.' Simple phrases like 'having one partner' are often used instead for clarity.