civil union

American  

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.

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Etymology

Origin of civil union

First frecorded in 1835–40

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

civil union

And it stresses that blessings should not be conferred at the same time as a civil union, using set rituals or even with the clothing and gestures that belong in a wedding.

From Seattle Times ● Dec. 18, 2023

Francis repeated that the Catholic Church cannot permit sacramental marriage of same-sex couples but that he supported so-called civil union legislation giving same-sex couples legal protection in issues such as pensions, inheritance and health care.

From Reuters ● Feb. 5, 2023

Ms. Heche and DeGeneres announced plans in 1999 for a civil union in Vermont if the state legalized the partnership, but they ended their relationship the next year.

From Washington Post ● Aug. 14, 2022

But while being in a civil union meant that same-sex couples had more legal benefits than before, those benefits fell short of those afforded to married couples, especially in relation to children and their care.

From BBC ● Mar. 10, 2022

An unlimited toleration, after sects have diffused themselves and are strongly rooted, is the only expedient which can allay their fervor, and make the civil union acquire a superiority above religious distinctions.

From The History of England in Three Volumes, Vol.I., Part F. From Charles II. to James II. by David Hume

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