noun
matrimony
MAT-rih-muh-nee
Matrimony (noun) means the state of being married; marriage. Example: “They entered into holy matrimony in a small church ceremony.”
noun
1
The state of being married; marriage.
"They entered into holy matrimony in a small church ceremony."
How to use matrimony
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA formal or traditional word for marriage.
When to use it
Somewhat formal or ceremonial — often heard in wedding vows and legal documents rather than casual conversation.
Common pairings
holy matrimony
enter into matrimony
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Word forms
- Plural
- matrimonies
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They entered into holy _____ in a small church ceremony.
Etymology
From Old French matremoine, from Latin mātrimōnium, built from māter, "mother," and -mōnium, "condition, obligation." Compare "patrimony."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for matrimony
See all rhymes for matrimony →Frequently asked questions
What does “matrimony” mean?
The word “matrimony” means the state of being married; marriage. In plain terms, a formal or traditional word for marriage.
How do you pronounce “matrimony”?
“Matrimony” is pronounced MAT-rih-muh-nee (/ˈmæt.ɹɪˌmoʊ.ni/ in IPA).
How do you use “matrimony” in a sentence?
Here is “matrimony” used in a sentence: “They entered into holy matrimony in a small church ceremony.”
What part of speech is “matrimony”?
“Matrimony” is a noun.
Where does the word “matrimony” come from?
The word “matrimony” comes from Latin. From Old French matremoine, from Latin mātrimōnium, built from māter, "mother," and -mōnium, "condition, obligation." Compare "patrimony.".
