Bigamy is a term that is often heard but not always understood. It is a concept that is associated with marriage and relationships, but it is not always clear what it means. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bigamy, its origins, and how it is used in different contexts.
Definitions
Bigamy is defined as the act of marrying a person while still being legally married to someone else. It is a form of polygamy, which involves having multiple spouses. In some jurisdictions, bigamy is a criminal offense, and individuals who engage in it can be prosecuted.
Origin
The word “bigamy” comes from the Greek words “bi-” meaning “two” and “gamos” meaning “marriage.” The concept of bigamy has been around for centuries and has been practiced in different parts of the world. In some cultures, having multiple spouses was a sign of wealth and status, while in others, it was a way to ensure the survival of the family.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bigamy is “the act of entering into a marriage with one person while still legally married to another.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the offence of marrying someone while already married to another person.”
Associations
Bigamy is often associated with deception and dishonesty. It is seen as a betrayal of trust and a violation of the sanctity of marriage. In some cases, it can also be seen as a form of abuse, especially if one of the spouses is unaware of the other’s marital status.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bigamy include polygamy, plural marriage, and multiple marriage. These terms all refer to the practice of having more than one spouse at the same time.
Antonyms
The antonym of bigamy is monogamy, which refers to the practice of having only one spouse at a time. Monogamy is the most common form of marriage in many cultures and is seen as the ideal form of relationship.
The same root words
The root words of bigamy are “bi-” meaning “two” and “gamos” meaning “marriage.” Other words that have the same root words include bigamist (a person who commits bigamy), bigamous (related to or involving bigamy), and bigamously (in a manner that involves bigamy).
Example Sentences
- John was arrested for bigamy after his first wife found out about his second marriage.
- In some cultures, bigamy is accepted and even encouraged.
- The church does not condone bigamy and considers it a sin.
- Mary was devastated when she found out that her husband had been engaging in bigamy for years.
- Bigamy is a serious offense and can result in imprisonment.