Exogamy

Synonyms

Intermarriage

Definition

Broadly speaking, exogamy refers to the sexual relationships between people of different group or clan memberships. However, its definition, and associated terminology, has been historically fluid as different times and cultures have taken varying stances on the term. For example, some focus their efforts on the study of exogamy, or the related topic intermarriage, whereas others focus their efforts on the study of its antonym endogamy, or the related topics homogamy or incest. As such, the literature has yet to provide a standard approach to the study of exogamy, let alone an established definition of the term. In fact, Loeb and Toffelmier’s (1939) early assertion that exogamy lacks a distinct meaning appears to have stood the test of time.

Introduction

A common working definition of exogamy is “incest avoidance,” with incest referring to relationships within the same clan (Tittmar 1990). In recent decades following shifts in cultural norms, the use...