marriage equality

American  

noun

1. the state of having the same rights and responsibilities of marriage as others, regardless of one's sexual orientation or gender identity.

2. legal recognition of the rights of marriage regardless of one's sexual orientation or gender identity.

   If it becomes law, the bill would establish marriage equality for same-sex couples.

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Etymology

Origin of marriage equality

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

A recent Gallup poll has found that after years of steady gains, support for marriage equality and same-sex relationships has slipped, particularly among Republicans.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

“Now, Rob and Michelle Reiner became the driving force in the landmark decision for marriage equality across the United States.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 15, 2026

Dr Bączyk-Bell said the process had been a "facetious charade" and it was a "false equivalence" to talk about hurt caused to those who had been theologically opposed to the idea of marriage equality.

From BBC • Feb. 12, 2026

On Monday, the Supreme Court turned down a request to reconsider its landmark marriage equality case.

From Salon • Nov. 11, 2025

He also seemed to genuinely care about supporting the marginalized: He had, for example, organized something called the “Big Gay Race” in support of marriage equality before he held political office.

From Slate • Nov. 3, 2025