dowry
dowry Lexical Profile
dowry Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An amount of property, money, or goods brought by a bride to her husband or his family upon their marriage.
"Historically, a substantial dowry was often used to secure an advantageous marriage alliance between noble families."
A natural talent, gift, or quality with which someone or something is endowed by nature.
"She possessed a rich dowry of intellect and determination that served her well throughout her academic career."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'dowry' (property or money brought by a bride to her husband at marriage) with 'bride price' or 'dower' (the portion of a deceased husband's estate allotted by law to his widow, or wealth paid by a groom's family to the bride's family).
• Rhymes for dowry
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'dowarie', borrowed from Anglo-Norman 'dowarie' and Old French 'douaire', ultimately tracing back to Medieval Latin 'dotarium' and Classical Latin 'dos' (meaning marriage portion or gift), related to the verb 'dare' (to give).