marriage -
n. 1 the legal union of a man and a woman in order to live together and often to have children.
2 an
act or ceremony establishing this union.
3 one particular union of this kind (by a previous
marriage).
4 an intimate union (the
marriage of true minds).
5 Cards the union of a king and
queen of the
same suit.
by marriage as a result of a marriage (related by marriage). in marriage as husband or wife (give in marriage; take in marriage). marriage bureau an establishment arranging introductions between persons wishing to marry. marriage certificate a certificate certifying the completion of a marriage ceremony. marriage guidance counselling of couples who have problems in married life. marriage licence a licence to marry. marriage lines Brit. a marriage certificate. marriage of convenience a marriage concluded to achieve some practical purpose, esp. financial or political. marriage settlement an arrangement securing property between spouses. [ME f. OF mariage f. marier MARRY(1)]
