-
Trending Now:
More Trending:
- beleaguer scaramouch non sequitur admiral's mast calumny
- ALL
common–law marriage
Definition of common–law marriage
1 : a marriage recognized in some jurisdictions and based on the parties' agreement to consider themselves married and sometimes also on their cohabitation
2 : the cohabitation of a couple even when it does not constitute a legal marriage
Explore M-W
First Known Use of common–law marriage
1888
Law Dictionary
common–law marriage
Legal Definition of common–law marriage
: a marriage that is without a ceremony and is based on the parties' agreement to consider themselves married and usually also on their cohabitation for a period and their public recognition of the marriage — compare concubinage
Additional Notes on common–law marriage
Most jurisdictions no longer allow this type of marriage to be formed, although they may recognize such marriages formed prior to a certain date or formed in a jurisdiction that does permit common-law marriages.
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up common–law marriage? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!