dowry

[ˈdaʊəri]

dowry Definition

property or money brought by a bride to her husband on their marriage.

Using dowry: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dowry" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The dowry was a significant amount of money.

  • Example

    The groom's family demanded a large dowry.

  • Example

    She received a generous dowry from her parents.

  • Example

    The dowry system is illegal in many countries.

dowry Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for dowry

Phrases with dowry

  • the murder or suicide of a woman who is unable to meet the demands of her husband or his family for a greater dowry

    Example

    Dowry deaths are still prevalent in some parts of the world.

  • a law enacted in India in 1961 that prohibits the request, payment, or acceptance of a dowry

    Example

    The Dowry Prohibition Act has been amended several times since its enactment.

  • the act of harassing a woman and her family for a greater dowry

    Example

    The bride's family filed a complaint against the groom's family for dowry harassment.

Origins of dowry

from Middle English 'doweri', from Old French 'doaire', from Medieval Latin 'dotarium', from Latin 'dos', meaning 'dowry'

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Summary: dowry in Brief

The term 'dowry' [ˈdaʊəri] refers to property or money that a bride brings to her husband upon marriage. It is often a significant amount of money and can be a source of conflict between families. The dowry system is illegal in many countries. Phrases like 'dowry death' and 'dowry harassment' refer to the negative consequences of this practice.

How do native speakers use this expression?