Definition of Matrimony

Matrimony is a joining. It unites spouses in the task of begetting and rearing children, and it dedicates them to one common life.

Matrimony, as a word, derives from mater whichmeans mother, and, perhaps, from munus whichmeans duty. Matrimony is sometimes called nuptials; thisword comes from nubere which means to veil, forit was an ancient custom to veil the heads of spouses. Matrimonyconstitutes a man and wife as a conjugal society, and thisword comes from conjugium which means *a pining,*or a yoking.

Peter the Lombard describes matrimony as “the marital union of a man and a woman, which involves their living together in undivided partnership.”