noun
endogamy
en-DOG-uh-mee
Endogamy (noun) means the custom of marrying, or being expected to marry, someone from within one's own ethnic, religious or social group. Example: “Endogamy is still expected in some traditional communities.”
noun
1
The custom of marrying, or being expected to marry, someone from within one's own ethnic, religious or social group.
"Endogamy is still expected in some traditional communities."
"Her family's endogamy meant she was encouraged to marry a distant cousin."
"Researchers have documented endogamy in many closed communities."
2
biology In biology, the fusion of two gametes that are closely related to each other.
"Endogamy occurred when two closely related gametes fused."
"The term endogamy is also used in biology for this kind of gamete fusion."
How to use endogamy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMarrying within your own group rather than outside it.
When to use it
This is a formal word used mainly in sociology and anthropology.
Memory tip
Remember that endo- means 'within', so endogamy is marrying within your own group.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
strict endogamy
practise endogamy
endogamy within a community
rules of endogamy
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_____ is still expected in some traditional communities.
Etymology
Formed within English by combining the prefix endo- with the suffix -gamy, following the same pattern as the word inmarriage.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for endogamy
See all rhymes for endogamy →Frequently asked questions
What does endogamy mean?
Endogamy is the practice of marrying within one's own ethnic, religious or social group, and in biology it can also mean the fusion of two closely related gametes.
What is the opposite of endogamy?
The opposite is exogamy, which means marrying outside one's own group.
Is endogamy still practised today?
Yes, some traditional communities still expect or encourage marriage within the group.
What is the meaning of endogamy?
"endogamy" (noun) means the custom of marrying, or being expected to marry, someone from within one's own ethnic, religious or social group.
