Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

polygynous

Adjective

/pəˈlɪdʒɪnəs/

Definition

Relating to or characterized by polygyny, a mating system in which one male mates with multiple females.

Examples

The lion is a polygynous animal, where one male usually leads a pride of several females.
In some cultures, polygynous marriages are prevalent, where a man may have multiple wives.
Researchers observed the polygynous behavior of certain bird species during their mating rituals.

Meaning

The term polygynous is commonly used in biological contexts, particularly in zoology and anthropology, to describe species or cultures where a single male has exclusive relationships with more than one female during a breeding season.