Dowry
/ˈdaʊəri/noun
Property or money brought by a bride to her husband on their marriage.
Did you know?In ancient cultures, dowries were often seen as a form of protection for women, ensuring their security and status in marriage, hinting at deep societal beliefs about women’s worth.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
dotarium
“A gift, especially in the context of marriage.”
Old French
Old French
doree
“Property given by a bride's family to the groom.”
Middle English
Middle English
dowery
“The property or wealth that a bride brings to her husband.”
Modern English
English
dowry
“The financial or property contribution from the bride's family to the groom.”