Polygyny is a form of marriage in which one man has multiple wives. It is the most common form of polygamy and appears in societies across Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and parts of the Pacific. In many cases, a man marries sisters, a practice called sororal polygyny. In others, co-wives are unrelated and may live in separate households.

Polygyny is often tied to wealth and status. A man with many wives can support them only if he has land, cattle, or income. Wives contribute labor, bear children, and extend a man's alliances. But polygyny creates tensions. Co-wives may compete for resources and affection. Anthropologists have documented both cooperation and conflict in polygynous households. The arrangement works best when seniority is clear and resources are shared fairly.

Common contexts

• Wealthy men with resources to support multiple households.
• Societies where women outnumber men.
• Bridewealth systems that favor older, established men.
• Political alliances sealed by marriage.

Polygyny is declining in many regions due to legal bans, urbanization, and changing gender norms. But it remains a recognized family form in many parts of the world.