endogamy
en-DOG-uh-mee
/enˈdɒɡ.ə.mi/
The custom or practice of marrying only within the limits of a local community, tribe, social group, or caste.
Specifically refers to marital boundaries designed to preserve group purity, wealth, or cultural identity.
The story behind the word. Coined in 1865 by Scottish ethnologist John Ferguson McLennan in his study of primitive marriage customs. He combined Greek 'endon' (inside) with 'gamos' (marriage) to create an explicit technical term contrasted with 'exogamy'.
Word relationships
- in-marriage: 'In-marriage' is an informal English equivalent, whereas 'endogamy' is the formal scientific term.
- exogamy: 'Exogamy' is the custom of marrying outside one's social group or tribe.
Commonly confused with
- polygamy: 'Polygamy' means having multiple spouses, whereas 'endogamy' refers to marrying within a specific group.
Word family
- endogamous (adjective): Relating to or practicing marriage within a specific social group.
- endogamously (adverb): In an endogamous manner.
Collocations
- strict endogamy
- enforce endogamy
- caste endogamy
- religious endogamy
Example sentences
- "Strict endogamy ensured that property and political power remained within the ruling dynasty for centuries." Anthropological research
- "By enforcing endogamy, the community preserved its distinct cultural identity across multiple generations." Sociological analysis
Memory hook
ENDO sounds like 'in-do' — marrying INSIDE your group. Marrying within the inside group.
When not to use
Do not confuse with inbreeding or incest, which refer to mating between close biological relatives rather than broader social groups.
Fun facts
- Genetic studies of isolated groups often reveal historical patterns of endogamy stretching back thousands of years.
Related words
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