An interesting note from an anthropological point of view is that while polygamy as a norm is relatively rare, cultures where polygamy is at least practiced actually outnumber those where strict monogamy is. Needless to say, this fact is changing with the continued Westernization of the world.

Po*lyg"a*my (?), n. [Gr. ; cf. F. polygamie.]

1.

The having of a plurality of wives or husbands at the same time; usually, the marriage of a man to more than one woman, or the practice of having several wives, at the same time; -- opposed to monogamy; as, the nations of the East practiced polygamy. See the Note under Bigamy, and cf. Polyandry.

2. Zool.

The state or habit of having more than one mate.

3. Bot.

The condition or state of a plant which bears both perfect and unisexual flowers.

© Webster 1913.