matrimony

noun

mat·​ri·​mo·​ny ˈma-trə-ˌmō-nē How to pronounce matrimony (audio)
: the state of being married : marriage

Examples of matrimony in a Sentence

two people joined in matrimony we intend to be joined in matrimony until “death do us part”
Recent Examples on the Web Yet Gracia, encouraged by the priests to suffer in imitation of Christ and for the promise of eternal afterlife, resolved to stay in disharmonious matrimony with Tadaoki. Nicholas Liu, Vulture, 17 Apr. 2024 Cott argues that although many Americans view matrimony as a religious affair, historical records show that it is best understood as a social, legal, and civil institution. Omar G. Encarnación, Foreign Affairs, 28 Apr. 2015 Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz Beckham celebrated their second year of matrimony on April 9, and David, 48, shouted out his son and daughter-in-law in two adorable posts on his Instagram Stories. Natasha Dye, Peoplemag, 9 Apr. 2024 The couple have been together since 1997 and have almost achieved 30 years of matrimony. Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 25 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for matrimony 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'matrimony.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French matrimoignie, from Latin matrimonium, from matr-, mater mother, matron — more at mother

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of matrimony was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near matrimony

Cite this Entry

“Matrimony.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/matrimony. Accessed 2 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

matrimony

noun
mat·​ri·​mo·​ny ˈma-trə-ˌmō-nē How to pronounce matrimony (audio)
plural matrimonies
: the union of two people as spouses : marriage
matrimonial
ˌma-trə-ˈmō-nē-əl
-nyəl
adjective
matrimonially
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on matrimony

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!