polygynous

[ puh-lij-uh-nuhs ]

adjective

1. of, pertaining to, characterized by, or practicing polygyny.
2. Botany. having many pistils or styles.

Word History and Origins

Origin of polygynous¹

First recorded in 1840–50; polygyn(y) + -ous

Example Sentences

Woman, on the other hand, cannot be said to be by her physical nature polyandrous as man is polygynous.

From Project Gutenberg

The normal man is instinctively more polygynous than the normal woman is polyandrous.

From Project Gutenberg

In the code of polygynous etiquette, the first wife takes precedence over the others, and each wife has her own cooking utensils.

From Project Gutenberg

They are polygynous, but, unlike the Arabs, great independence is granted their women.

From Project Gutenberg