Dow"ry (?), n.; pl. Dowries (#). [Contr. from dowery; cf. LL. dotarium. See Dower.]
1. A gift; endowment. [Obs.]
Spenser.
2. The money, goods, or estate, which a woman brings to her husband in marriage; a bride's portion on her marriage. See Note under Dower.
Shak. Dryden.
3. A gift or presents for the bride, on espousal. See Dower.
Ask me never so much dowry and gift, and I will give . . .; but give me the damsel to wife.
Gen. xxxiv. 12.
© Webster 1913. |