Definition

Noun: A legal document, issued by a government authority, that grants formal permission for two people to marry. It is a prerequisite for a legally recognized wedding ceremony.

Usage

A marriage licence is obtained by a couple from a local government office (such as a county clerk or registrar) before their wedding. It certifies that the couple meets the legal requirements (e.g., age, identity, lack of a prior undissolved marriage) to marry. The licence is typically signed by the couple, the officiant, and witnesses during the marriage ceremony, after which it is returned to the issuing authority to be recorded, making the marriage official.

Examples

• The couple applied for their marriage licence at the city hall.
• You cannot have a legal ceremony without a valid marriage licence.
• The officiant checked the marriage licence before beginning the service.

Advanced Usage

• "To take out a marriage licence": This phrase means to apply for and receive a marriage licence.
  • They took out a marriage licence last week.
• The concept is often part of the broader legal process, distinct from the marriage certificate, which is the document issued the marriage has been performed and recorded.

Variants and Related Words

• Marriage license: The more common spelling in American English.
• Wedding licence (less common): Sometimes used interchangeably, though "marriage licence" is the standard legal term.
• Marriage certificate: The document proving a marriage has occurred, issued after the licence has been filed following the ceremony.

Synonyms

• Wedding licence (informal)
• Marriage permit

Related Phrases

• Apply for a licence: The action of formally requesting the document.
  • They went to the county clerk to apply for a licence.
• License to marry: A less formal way of referring to the document.
  • They finally got their license to marry.

Noun

1. a license authorizing two people to marry