What does "dowry" mean?
Dowry: The money, goods, or estate, which a woman brings to her husband in marriage; a bride's portion on her marriage. See Note under Dower. Shak. Dryden.
Additional senses
- 2.A gift or presents for the bride, on espousal. See Dower. Ask me never so much dowry and gift, and I will give . . .; but give me the damsel to wife. Gen. xxxiv. 12.
Sources
- Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913 edition (public domain, via GCIDE / Project Gutenberg).
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- Published: 2026-07-17T00:00:00-07:00 · Modified: 2026-07-17T00:00:00-07:00