civil union

noun

1. a relationship between a couple that is legally recognized by a governmental authority and has many of the rights and responsibilities of marriage:

   civil unions for same-sex couples.

2. civil marriage.

Word History and Origins

Origin of civil union¹

First frecorded in 1835–40

Example Sentences

Esteban Paulón, an activist in Argentina, noted Francis “in private expressed his support” for civil unions for same-sex couples during the marriage equality debate in his homeland before he became pope.

From Washington Blade

The couple, who celebrated a civil union in Vermont in 2000 and were legally married in Massachusetts in 2004, wondered why they didn’t hear back from the agency.

From Washington Blade

Fontanos, like Paulón, also pointed out Francis’ comments on civil unions in Argentina.

From Washington Blade

Pope Francis has publicly endorsed civil unions for same-sex couples.

From Washington Blade

Many of them on Wednesday nevertheless welcomed Francis’ comments on civil unions.

From Washington Blade

Several Italian cities, including Naples, already have a civil union registry.

From The Daily Beast

Those who wish to have a civil union should be able to marry by an officer of the state.

From The Daily Beast

Advocates in Missouri seem beyond pushing the governor on the matter and are not even pursuing civil-union legislation.

From The Daily Beast

As a matter of fact, France already allows a form of civil union, known as the PACS or civil solidarity pact.

From The Daily Beast

“We had our civil-union ceremony, what we considered the big day,” says Berg.

From The Daily Beast

Whether, in 1689, it would have been possible to effect a civil union without a religious union may well be doubted.

From Project Gutenberg