matrimony

noun

mat·​ri·​mo·​ny ˈma-trə-ˌmō-nē 

: the state of being married : marriage

Synonyms

• conjugality
• connubiality
• marriage
• match
• wedlock

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

This cowboy is getting hitched and has the hat to match in matrimony. —Teaghan Skulszki, Outside Online, 12 Apr. 2025

Christine has taken an ideological stance against the emotional labor and inequity inherent in the system of conventional matrimony! —Christine Murphy, People.com, 5 Mar. 2025

Although their relationship has evolved and comes with its challenges, the couple both still enjoy being married and tell ESSENCE why matrimony is a commitment that’s worthwhile for them. —Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 21 Feb. 2025

Whether adorable, touching, or surprising, these magical moments of matrimony are memories to last a lifetime for the brides and everyone who witnessed them. —Ronnie Li, USA TODAY, 7 Dec. 2024

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

Phrases Containing matrimony

• holy matrimony
• join (someone) in marriage/matrimony
• matrimony vine
• the bonds of holy matrimony

Rhymes for matrimony

• abalone
• acrimony
• alimony
• antimony
• ceremony
• chalcedony
• cicerone
• cosmogony
• eurozone
• lithopone
• macaroni
• naloxone

Kids Definition

matrimony

noun

mat·​ri·​mo·​ny ˈma-trə-ˌmō-nē 

plural matrimonies

: the union of two people as spouses : marriage

matrimonial

ˌma-trə-ˈmō-nē-əl

-nyəl

adjective

matrimonially

-ē

adverb