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

Example Sentences

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

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

"There should be the same standard for all genders, whether it's a civil union or marriage."

From Reuters • Jun. 15, 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

The military organization of the Iroquois was exceedingly imperfect and derived all its efficiency from their civil union and their personal prowess.

From The Jesuits in North America in the Seventeenth Century by Parkman, Francis