Digamous

/daɪˈɡæməs/ adjective

Definition

Describing organisms that breed or reproduce twice, or relating to digamy (marriage twice).

Etymology

From di- (two) + -gamous (relating to reproduction/marriage). Can apply either to reproductive cycles in biology or to the marital history in social contexts.

Kelly Says

Some plants are digamous, flowering twice a season in spring and fall—nature's way of hedging bets, since the first bloom might fail but the second has a better chance.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Digamous (marrying twice) etymologically tied to gamy/marriage structures historically regulated by male authority; term historically applied more to women remarrying, implying moral judgment about female agency and chastity.

Inclusive Usage

Use neutrally to describe marital status without judgment; apply equally to all genders when discussing remarriage or multiple marriages.

Inclusive Alternatives

["married more than once","remarried"]

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.