Fleet marriage

noun

: a marriage performed during the late 17th and early 18th centuries in or near the Fleet prison in London without public notice, witnesses, or consent of parents

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now