matrimony
UK/'mætrimәuni/US
IELTSC2
Definitions
n.
The state or ceremony of marriage
婚姻；婚礼
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedmatr (mother) + -mony (a state or condition) = the state that made a woman a wife and mother. Historically marriage was framed as the institution of motherhood — hence the matr-, not patr-. Today it is a formal or legal word for marriage, common in 'holy matrimony.'
Root metro still carries 6 more wordsUsage Guide
Formal and somewhat archaic. In everyday speech people say marriage; matrimony appears mainly in wedding ceremonies, legal/religious contexts, and the set phrase 'holy matrimony.' Compare patrimony, which is unrelated in meaning — it is property inherited from a father.
Example Sentences
- 1.
They were joined in holy matrimony last spring.
- 2.
The contract recognizes the rights of both parties in matrimony.