Marriage

/ˈmɛrɪdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The legally or formally recognized union of two individuals as partners in a personal relationship.
Their marriage was celebrated with a large ceremony in the garden.
A relationship between two people that is typically characterized by mutual commitments and shared lives.
He believes that communication is key to a successful marriage.
The state of being married.
After years of dating, they finally entered into marriage.
The act or ceremony of marrying.
The marriage took place on a beautiful sunny day.
A joining together of different elements or entities.
The marriage of technology and education has transformed the learning experience.

Etymology

Middle English 'mariage', from Old French 'mariage', based on 'mari' (married).

Common Phrases and Expressions

marriage vows
Promises made by the couple during the wedding ceremony to love and support each other.
marriage license
A legal document that allows two people to marry.
marriage certificate
An official document that records a marriage.
arranged marriage
A marriage in which the spouses are chosen by someone other than the couple, often their families.

Related Words

spouse
A person who is married; a husband or wife.
matrimonial
Relating to marriage.
betrothal
A formal agreement to marry; engagement.
cohabitation
The state of living together and having a sexual relationship without being married.

Slang Meanings

ball and chain
He jokingly referred to his wife as his 'ball and chain'.
tie the knot
They decided to tie the knot after dating for five years.