Exogamy

/ɛkˈsɑɡəmi/ noun

Definition

The practice of mating or marriage between individuals from different social groups, families, or populations rather than within the same group.

Etymology

From Greek 'exo-' meaning 'outside' and 'gamos' meaning 'marriage.' The term emerged in anthropology to describe marriage customs and biological reproduction patterns that favor genetic outbreeding.

Kelly Says

Exogamy created the whole concept of extended human social networks—when your sister marries someone from another tribe, you suddenly have new allies, trading partners, and genetic advantages all at once!

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