A dowry is a transfer of assets, typically in the form of money, goods, or property, from a bride's family to the groom or his family upon marriage. Historically, it was a common practice worldwide, serving various social and economic functions. In some cultures, the dowry was intended to provide financial security for the bride in the event of widowhood or divorce. It could also enhance the bride's social status or compensate the groom's family for the cost of supporting a wife. While dowries have declined in many parts of the world, they persist in some regions and are sometimes associated with social pressures and inequalities.
Dowry meaning with examples
- The family spent years accumulating the required dowry to ensure a favorable match for their daughter, hoping it would secure her future. They understood that a higher dowry could attract a groom from a higher social class.
- Negotiations about the dowry, including the specific assets to be transferred and the payment schedule, often played a significant role in arranging the marriage between the two families.
- The historical practice of the dowry system contributed to the devaluation of women and created financial strains on families, sometimes leading to devastating consequences.
- Despite the official ban, the custom of a dowry persists in certain rural communities, and the family carefully weighs their decisions to avoid shame and secure their daughter's future.
Dowry Synonyms
bride price dot inheritance portion settlementDowry Antonyms
alimony bride's wealth giftDowry Crossword Answers
5 Letters
ROWDY DOWER
6 Letters
DOWERY
7 Letters
PORTION