marriage license
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A legal document, issued by a government authority, that grants a couple official permission to marry. It is a prerequisite for a legally recognized marriage ceremony to be performed.
Usage
A marriage license is obtained from a county clerk's office or similar local government office before a wedding. The couple must typically apply together, provide identification, and sometimes meet other requirements like a waiting period or a blood test. The license is then signed by the officiant and witnesses during the marriage ceremony to validate the union.
Examples
- The couple applied for their marriage license at the courthouse.
- You cannot have a legal wedding ceremony without a valid marriage license.
- The officiant reminded them to bring the marriage license to the rehearsal.
Advanced Usage
- "To file for a marriage license": The formal process of submitting an application to obtain the license.
- They filed for a marriage license three days before the wedding.
- "Marriage license bureau": The specific government office responsible for issuing these documents.
- We need to find the local marriage license bureau.
Variants and Related Words
- Marriage certificate (n): A different document that serves as official proof a marriage has occurred, issued the ceremony once the signed license is returned to the government.
- They ordered a copy of their marriage certificate for legal purposes.
Synonyms
- Wedding license: A less common but understood synonym.
- Marriage permit: A formal term with the same meaning.
Related Phrases
- To solemnize a marriage: The formal act of performing a wedding ceremony, for which the license is required.
- The judge can solemnize a marriage once the license is presented.
Noun
- a license authorizing two people to marry