Hypergamy is defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary as “marrying into an equal or higher caste or social group.”

These days, we use this word to describe dating someone who is more powerful and richer than you. You become hypergamous when you actively seek out those traits in a partner.

Hypergamy has been around for centuries, as Dr. Natasha Sharma explains that women once had no choice but to look for partners who could guarantee social security for them.

Experts believe that hypergamy has roots in biological evolution. You don’t need a man, but this hard-wired inclination may still manifest thanks to generations of conditioning.

Dr. Helen Fisher, chief science advisor at Match, said, “Hundreds of thousands of years ago, you wanted a man who had more resources [...] to help you raise

your children.”

Many people tend to conflate hypergamy with gold-digging. According to psychotherapist Natalija Rascotina, the primary difference between the two is the ultimate agenda.

While hypergamous people tend to look for partners who can give them "status and power," gold-diggers are more interested in "the financial reward,” and are more self-centered.

Sociology experts maintain that it's not a bad thing to seek out a partner who is powerful and influential. Regardless of gender, it's human nature to want a high-quality life.

That is typically achieved through financial and social security. Hypergamy becomes problematic when people rely on a partner to provide for them without considering a backup plan.

It’s not unhealthy to seek financial and social security, as these things can often improve your overall well-being, but they aren’t the only things that matter.

Hypergamy is healthy as long as you're considering the whole picture, like whether your partner is caring and loyal, not just what their social status and bank account look like.