What term describes the practice of having only one sexual or marriage partner at any given time?

The term that describes the practice of having only one sexual or marriage partner at any given time is monogamy. Monogamy is recognized as a social and cultural norm in many societies where individuals form exclusive, partnered relationships. This practice is significant because it establishes social structures around intimate partnerships, often associated with ideals of loyalty and commitment.

In contrast, polygamy refers to a broader practice that encompasses multiple spouses, while polyandry and polygyny specify the types of polygamous relationships involving one woman with multiple husbands or one man with multiple wives, respectively. These terms highlight various forms of partnership dynamics, focusing on multiplicity rather than singularity. Monogamy stands out as the arrangement emphasizing exclusivity, often reflecting personal, social, and legal frameworks in various cultures.