Marriage
/ˈmærɪdʒ/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe state of being married; the legal or religious union of two people.
/ˈmærɪdʒ/
The legally or formally recognized union of two people as partners in a personal relationship (historically and typically a man and a woman).
Their marriage was celebrated with a grand reception.
💡 Simply: Marriage is like a very special, official promise between two people who love each other. It's like they're saying, 'We're a team, and we'll go through life together!' Like when your parents say, 'I do!'.
👶 For kids: When two people love each other and decide to be a family forever.
More Examples
The couple decided to postpone their marriage.
Marriage is a significant life event for many.
How It's Used
"The marriage certificate was officially signed."
"They announced their marriage at a family gathering."
The act of being married or the condition of being married.
/ˈmærɪdʒ/
The act of marrying; the state of being married.
They entered into marriage with great enthusiasm.
💡 Simply: When we talk about 'marriage' in this way, we're talking about the *event* of getting married or the *state* of being married. Like saying, 'Their marriage was beautiful' or 'They are in a happy marriage.'
👶 For kids: The act of getting married and starting a family, like when you see people at a wedding.
More Examples
The cost of marriage can be significant.
Marriage can be both fulfilling and challenging.
How It's Used
"Arranged marriages were common in the past."
"Changes in societal attitudes have impacted modern marriage."
Idioms & expressions
shotgun wedding
A wedding that is planned quickly because the woman is pregnant.
"The family quickly arranged a shotgun wedding after the pregnancy was announced."
arranged marriage
A marriage in which the bride and groom are chosen by their families.
"Arranged marriages are still common in some cultures."
From Old French *mariage*, from Latin *matrimonium* ('marriage'), derived from *mater* ('mother'). Historically associated with the responsibilities and legal frameworks of family creation and inheritance.
Historically, marriage was often viewed as a means of establishing family alliances, ensuring property inheritance, and fulfilling social obligations.
Memory tip
Think of a ring - a symbol of eternal commitment and a key part of the marriage.