What does polyandry specifically refer to in the context of marriage systems?

Polyandry specifically refers to a marital arrangement in which a woman has multiple husbands at the same time. This practice can be observed in various cultures around the world and is often linked to specific social, economic, or environmental conditions that make such arrangements beneficial. For instance, in some communities, polyandry helps to control population growth, preserve family land, or coordinate labor among a larger group of males who may be related to one another.

The concept is distinct from other forms of marriage. In contrast, polygamy generally describes broader practices where one individual has multiple spouses, which can include either a male having multiple wives (polygyny) or a female having multiple husbands (polyandry). Therefore, understanding the specific term of polyandry helps clarify the dynamics of marital arrangements within the context of anthropology and cultural studies.