/ ˈmærɪdʒ; NAmE / noun
1.
[ C ] the legal relationship between a husband and wife :
a happy / unhappy marriage
All of her children's marriages ended in divorce.
an arranged marriage (= one in which the parents choose a husband or wife for their child)
She has two children by a previous marriage.
—see also mixed
2.
[ U ] the state of being married :
They don't believe in marriage.
My parents are celebrating 30 years of marriage.
3.
[ C ] the ceremony in which two people become husband and wife :
Their marriage took place in a local church.
HELP NOTE : Wedding is more common in this meaning.
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IDIOMS
- by marriage
—more at hand noun
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : from Old French mariage , from marier marry.