EXOGAMOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Exogamous is an adjective that pertains to the practice of seeking or contracting marriage partners outside of one's own social, ethnic, or cultural group. It describes a system of marriage or mating that requires individuals to choose a spouse from a different social or cultural background. In this context, exogamy serves as the antonym of endogamy, which refers to the practice of marrying within one's own social group.
The term exogamous, therefore, indicates the preference or requirement for individuals to marry someone who is not a member of their immediate family, clan, tribe, or community. This practice often serves to promote social cohesion, cultural diversity, and even genetic diversity within a population. Exogamy often functions as a way of forging alliances and promoting interaction between different social groups or communities.
The concept of exogamy can be found in various societies across the world, and its significance may vary depending on the specific cultural context. In some societies, exogamy is strictly enforced, while in others, it may be a matter of personal choice or preference. Exogamous marriages can have important social, economic, and political consequences, potentially contributing to the diffusion of cultural practices, the formation of new alliances, and the exchange of resources or power between groups.
In summary, exogamous refers to the practice of seeking marriage partners outside of one's own social, ethnic, or cultural group. It describes a system that requires individuals to marry someone from a different background, and it plays a crucial role in promoting diversity and forging connections between different social groups or communities.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for EXOGAMOUS
Etymology of EXOGAMOUS
The term "exogamous" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "exo" meaning "outside" or "beyond", and "gamos" meaning "marriage" or "union". Thus, the word literally translates to "outside marriage" or "marrying outside". The concept of exogamy refers to the practice of marrying outside one's social group, clan, or community. It is often contrasted with endogamy, which involves marrying within one's own group.
Similar spelling words for EXOGAMOUS
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