Definition

Noun: A legal document issued by a government authority that grants official permission for two people to enter into marriage. It certifies that the couple has met the legal requirements (such as age, identity, and lack of impediments) to marry and must be obtained before the marriage ceremony can be legally performed.

Usage

A "wedding license" is the formal authorization required to conduct a legal marriage. It is typically obtained from a county clerk's office or similar local government office. The couple must present the license to the person officiating their marriage ceremony (e.g., a judge, minister, or officiant). After the ceremony, the officiant and witnesses sign the license, which is then returned to the issuing office to be recorded, making the marriage legally binding.

Examples

• The couple applied for their wedding license at the county courthouse.
• You cannot have a legally recognized ceremony without a valid wedding license.
• The officiant asked to see the wedding license before beginning the service.

Advanced Usage

• "To obtain a wedding license": The standard phrase for the process of getting this document.
  • They need to obtain a wedding license at least three days before the ceremony, as required by state law.
• "Wedding license application": Refers to the form and process of requesting the license.
  • Filling out the wedding license application was the first official step in their marriage process.

Variants and Related Words

• Marriage license: The more common and formal term, often used interchangeably with "wedding license." It emphasizes the legal contract of marriage.
• Marriage certificate: A different document; this is the official record issued the marriage has been performed and the license has been filed, proving the marriage occurred.

Synonyms

• Marriage license: The direct synonym.
• Marriage permit: A less common term with the same meaning.

Notes on Meaning

While "wedding license" is widely understood, in strict legal and administrative contexts, the term "marriage license" is more frequently used. "Wedding" often refers to the ceremonial event, while "marriage" refers to the legal and lifelong institution. The license pertains to the legal institution, hence the prevalence of "marriage license."

Noun

1. a license authorizing two people to marry