Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words. The practice of having more than one husband or wife at the same time
Polygamy
Understanding Polygamy: The Practice of Multiple Spouses
The question asks for a one-word substitute for the phrase "The practice of having more than one husband or wife at the same time". This is a vocabulary question that requires identifying the correct term for a specific social or marital practice.
Analyzing the Options
Let's examine each provided option to determine which one accurately describes the practice of having multiple spouses simultaneously.
- Polygon: This term refers to a plane figure with at least three straight sides and angles. It is a geometric term and has no relation to marital practices. Therefore, Polygon is incorrect.
- Polymorphism: In biology, Polymorphism describes the occurrence of different forms or types among the individuals of a single species. In computer science, it refers to the ability of code to take on different forms or types. It is not related to marriage. Therefore, Polymorphism is incorrect.
- Polygenesis: This term refers to the theory that humans or linguistic stocks originated at different places simultaneously, as opposed to monogenesis (originating from a single source). It is a concept in anthropology or linguistics, not related to marriage. Therefore, Polygenesis is incorrect.
- Polygamy: This term is derived from Greek words 'poly' meaning many, and 'gamos' meaning marriage. Polygamy is defined as the practice or custom of having more than one wife or husband at the same time. This definition directly matches the phrase given in the question. Therefore, Polygamy is the correct one-word substitute.
Identifying the Correct One-Word Substitute
Based on the analysis of the options, the term that specifically denotes "The practice of having more than one husband or wife at the same time" is Polygamy.
Conclusion
The correct one-word substitute for the given group of words is Polygamy.
Revision Table: Understanding Related Terms
| Term | Definition | Relation to Marriage |
|---|---|---|
| Polygon | A plane figure with multiple straight sides. | None |
| Polymorphism | Occurrence in different forms (biology, programming). | None |
| Polygenesis | Theory of multiple origins (humans, languages). | None |
| Polygamy | The practice of having more than one husband or wife simultaneously. | Directly related (multiple marriages) |
Additional Information on Polygamy and Related Concepts
Polygamy is an umbrella term for marital arrangements involving more than two spouses. It can be further divided based on the gender of the spouses:
- Polygyny: The practice of one man having more than one wife at the same time. This is the most common form of polygamy historically and globally.
- Polyandry: The practice of one woman having more than one husband at the same time. This is much less common than polygyny.
The opposite of polygamy is Monogamy, which is the practice of being married to only one person at a time. Most societies today practice monogamy.
Understanding the roots of these words (poly- meaning many, mono- meaning one, -gamy meaning marriage) can help remember their meanings.
Important Questions from One Word Substitution
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