endogamy

 
Pronunciation: /ɛnˈdɒgəmi/

noun

[mass noun]
  • 1 Anthropology the custom of marrying only within the limits of a local community, clan, or tribe. Compare with exogamy.
  • 2 Biology the fusion of reproductive cells from related individuals; inbreeding; self-pollination.

Derivatives

endogamous

adjective

Origin:

mid 19th century: from endo- 'within' + Greek gamos 'marriage', on the pattern of polygamy