Monogamous

/məˈnɑg.ə.məs/ adjective

Definition

Practicing or relating to a romantic partnership with only one partner; having one mate or spouse.

Etymology

From Greek 'monos' (single, one) + 'gamos' (marriage, union). The suffix '-ous' (full of, characterized by) was added in Latin formations. The concept has ancient roots in multiple cultures.

Kelly Says

Humans aren't naturally monogamous—most monogamy came with property ownership and inheritance. The word is only about 400 years old in English, suggesting the concept itself was a cultural innovation, not biological destiny!

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