adjective
monogamous
muh-NAH-guh-mus/məˈnɑːɡəməs/
Having only one sexual or romantic partner at a time.
The monogamous couple hold hands, their matching wedding bands visible.
Etymology
The roots express “single marriage.” Originally describing someone who married only once, the word came to describe having only one spouse at a time; the selected sense extends this to sexual partners.
In context
bald eagle couples are monogamous and they stay together for life
More examples
- We agree to be monogamous before moving in together.
- She wants a monogamous relationship, but he prefers dating several people.
- You can be monogamous without being married.
Forms
monogamy noun — Having only one romantic or sexual partner.
Similar words
- exclusive
- Describes a relationship whose partners agree not to date others.
- faithful
- Stresses loyalty to a partner rather than partner count.