Meaning & Definition of word "Marriage"

Marriage

/ˈmɛrɪdʒ/

noun:

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

Meaning: ball and chain

Example Sentence: He jokingly referred to his wife as his 'ball and chain'.

Meaning: tie the knot

Example Sentence: They decided to tie the knot after dating for five years.