Marry

Definition

Marry is a verb that refers to the act of legally or formally joining in marriage or uniting two things harmoniously.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmæri/
• Respelling: MAR-ee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmæri/
• Respelling: MA-ree

Etymology

The word "marry" originates from Middle English "marien," derived from Old French "marier," meaning "to wed," and from Latin "maritare," meaning "to provide with a husband or wife." Its use to describe uniting or combining things evolved later.

Derivatives

• Marriage (noun)
• Married (adjective)
• Marital (adjective)
• Remarry (verb)
• Unmarried (adjective)

Synonyms

• Wed
• Unite
• Join

Antonyms

• Divorce
• Separate
• None

Usage

The verb "marry" is often used in the context of formal unions, relationships, or metaphorically for harmonizing elements. For example, "They decided to marry after five years of dating," or "This recipe perfectly marries sweet and savory flavors."

Related Terms

• Spouse: A husband or wife.
• Engagement: A formal agreement to marry.
• Union: The act of joining two things or people together.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To join in marriage as husband and wife: Refers to the formal union of two people in matrimony.
  • Example: "They plan to marry in the spring."
• To officiate at a marriage ceremony: Describes the act of performing the duties of a marriage officiant.
  • Example: "The priest will marry the couple at the church."
• To combine or unite harmoniously: Refers to joining or blending two elements in a pleasing way.
  • Example: "The designer married traditional and modern styles in the new collection."