Marriage License - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

A "marriage license" is an official document issued by a government authority that grants permission for two people to marry. It's like a pre-wedding permission slip from the state 📜. Think of it as verifying that both individuals meet the legal requirements to wed. These requirements usually include age, marital status, and blood relation. It confirms that the marriage is legal and recognized by the government. Without it, a marriage ceremony holds no legal weight. Getting a marriage license is a critical step in the wedding process. It ensures that the union is officially recognized and protected by law.

Etymology

The term combines "marriage," from Old French *mariage* (union), with "license," (see 'fishing license'). *Mariage* comes from Latin *maritare*, meaning to marry. A "marriage license" thus represents a sanctioned right to marry. It signifies that the couple has met the legal requirements and the union is officially approved.

Related Words

Examples

• "They obtained their marriage license a week before the wedding."
• "You need a marriage license to legally get married in this state."
• "The clerk at the courthouse issued the marriage license."
• "Without a marriage license, the ceremony is just for show."

Encouragement

Don't forget to obtain your marriage license before tying the knot! It ensures your union is legally recognized and protected. It’s an essential part of starting your new life together. ❤️

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