civil marriage

American  

noun

1. a marriage performed by a government official, as distinguished from a member of the clergy.

---

civil marriage British  

noun

1. law a marriage performed by some official other than a clergyman

---

Etymology

Origin of civil marriage

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Before he was enthroned, the king married Mayisela in 2021 in a civil marriage.

From BBC • Jan. 20, 2025

Although today most Americans are likely to encounter a justice of the peace in the context of civil marriage ceremonies, this office was once the most important agent of law enforcement.

From Slate • Dec. 5, 2023

Uner the proposals, same-sex couples could have a service in which there would be "prayers of dedication, thanksgiving or for God's blessing on the couple" in church after a civil marriage.

From Reuters • Jan. 18, 2023

Nader Fawz, 37, also chose a civil marriage even though he and his wife share a religious affiliation.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 25, 2022

In the morning Jules and Blanche received communion at early mass, and later they went with Madame Perrault and Monsieur Berthier to the Mayor's office, where the civil marriage ceremony was performed.

From Mademoiselle Blanche A Novel by Barry, John David