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polyandry

noun
poly·​an·​dry | \ ˈpä-lē-ˌan-drē How to pronounce polyandry (audio) \

Definition of polyandry

: the state or practice of having more than one husband or male mate at one time — compare polygamy, polygyny
Other Words from polyandry Example Sentences Learn More about polyandry

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Other Words from polyandry

polyandrous \ ˌpä-​lē-​ˈan-​drəs How to pronounce polyandrous (audio) \ adjective

Examples of polyandry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 First, not all species are monogamous, and father-like behavior can accompany polyandry—a phenomenon in which a female takes multiple mates, leaving paternity a mystery. — Paul Nicklen, National Geographic, "6 Animals That Are Stellar Stepdads," 13 June 2017

First Known Use of polyandry

1680, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for polyandry

Greek polyandros, adjective, having many husbands, from poly- + andr-, anēr man, husband — more at andr-

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More Definitions for polyandry

polyandry

noun
poly·​an·​dry | \ ˈpäl-ē-ˌan-drē How to pronounce polyandry (audio) \
plural polyandries

Medical Definition of polyandry

: the state or practice of having more than one husband or male mate at one time — compare polygamy, polygyny

Other Words from polyandry

polyandrous \ ˌpäl-​ē-​ˈan-​drəs How to pronounce polyandrous (audio) \ adjective

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