Common Law Marriage

Pronunciation: /ˈkɑmən lɔ ˈmɛrɪdʒ/

Definitions of common law marriage

noun A type of marriage that is recognized in some jurisdictions based on the couple's cohabitation and holding themselves out as a married couple without a formal ceremony or marriage license.

Example Sentences

A1 A common law marriage is when a couple lives together as if they are married.

A2 In some countries, a common law marriage is recognized as a legal marriage.

B1 Common law marriage can have legal implications, especially when it comes to property rights.

B2 It is important to understand the requirements for a common law marriage in your state.

C1 The concept of common law marriage has evolved over time and varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

C2 Legal experts recommend couples in common law marriages to have written agreements to protect their rights.

Examples of common law marriage in a Sentence

formal In some jurisdictions, a common law marriage is recognized as a legal marriage without the need for a formal ceremony.

informal They've been living together for so long, it's basically a common law marriage at this point.

slang They're not officially married, but they have a common law thing going on.

figurative Their partnership is like a common law marriage - not legally binding, but just as committed.

Grammatical Forms of common law marriage

• plural: common law marriages
• comparative: more common law marriage
• superlative: most common law marriage
• present tense: common law marriage
• future tense: will have common law marriage
• perfect tense: has had common law marriage
• continuous tense: is having common law marriage
• singular: common law marriage
• positive degree: common law marriage
• infinitive: to have common law marriage
• gerund: having common law marriage
• participle: had common law marriage

Origin and Evolution of common law marriage

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The concept of common law marriage originated in medieval England.

Evolution of the word: Originally, common law marriage referred to a legal marriage recognized by the common law system without the need for a formal ceremony. Over time, the term has evolved to also encompass cohabiting couples who have lived together for a certain period of time and are considered legally married in some jurisdictions.