Definition

1. Noun:
   • A marriage performed by a government official rather than by a religious figure: A "civil marriage" is a legally recognized union between two people that is solemnized by a state-authorized official, such as a judge, justice of the peace, or a registrar, without religious rites or ceremonies.

Usage

• Noun:
  • A "civil marriage" is a legal contract between spouses, recognized by the state.
  • It is often chosen by couples who are not religious, who are of different faiths, or who prefer a secular ceremony.
  • The legal rights and obligations are the same as for a religious marriage in the eyes of the law.

Examples

• Noun:
  • They opted for a civil marriage at the city hall.
  • In many countries, a civil marriage is a legal requirement before any religious ceremony can be performed.
  • The couple celebrated their civil marriage with a small reception for family.

Advanced Usage

• "To have a civil marriage": to be married in a civil ceremony.
  • They decided to have a civil marriage and then a separate blessing for their families.

Variants and Related Words

• Civil ceremony (n): A non-religious official ceremony, which can include a marriage.
  • Their civil ceremony was simple and elegant.
• Civil union (n): A legally recognized partnership similar to marriage, often with specific legal rights.
  • Some jurisdictions offer civil unions as an alternative to marriage.

Synonyms

• Secular marriage: A marriage without religious affiliation.
• Registry office marriage: A marriage performed at a government registry (common in some countries like the UK).

Antonyms

• Religious marriage: A marriage solemnized according to the rites of a particular religion by a clergy member.
• Church wedding: A marriage ceremony conducted in a church.

Noun

1. a marriage performed by a government official rather than by a clergyman