Endogamy Meaning and Definition

Here’s the modified HTML content: Endogamy

Endogamy

Pronunciation

/ɛndəˈɡæmi/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

The practice of marrying within one’s own ethnic or social group, or the act of limiting social interaction or marriage to one’s own group.

Examples

  • The community has a strong history of endogamy, with many residents marrying within their faith and cultural traditions.
  • Endogamy is often used to maintain social and cultural boundaries, especially in areas with limited outside influence.
  • Some argue that endogamy can lead to a lack of diversity and innovation in social and cultural systems.

Synonyms

  • Inbreeding
  • Endogamy

Etymology

From Greek ἐνδός (endos), “within”, and γαμία (gamos), “marriage).

Usage Notes

Endogamy is often used in sociological, anthropological, and historical contexts to describe social and cultural practices.

Cultural References

Notable appearances in popular culture include in the novel and film “The Da Vinci Code” and in the TV show “Game of Thrones”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Inbreeding” is a common idiomatic phrase used to describe endogamy.

Related Words or Phrases

Genetic drift, social isolation, cultural homogeneity

Collocations

marriage, family, tradition, culture, community

Frequency of Use

Endogamy is a relatively rare word in everyday conversation, but it is often used in academic and professional contexts.

Common Misspellings

Endogmay, Endogami, Endogamy

Related Words