The prefix ‘poly’ signifies plurality. When there are plural spouses, the marriage is called polygamous, and the practice is termed polygamy. A monogamous union can be changed into a polygamous one if either party acquires additional spouse/s, and when such a practice is socially recognized.
Thus, it precludes those who are recognized lovers out of wedlock. These latter practices are called concubinage and cicisbeism. A concubine is a lover of a married man, not his wife. Similarly, a ‘cicisbeo’ (an Italian word) is the recognized lover of a married woman. Cicisbeism thus refers to the extra-marital liaison of a married woman.
As we have noted, polygamy is of three types: polygyny, polyandry and group marriage.
Polygyny exists when a husband has more than one wife.
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