from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Dowry \Dow"ry\ (dou"r[y^]), n.; pl. {Dowries} (dou"r[i^]z).
[Contr. from dowery; cf. LL. dotarium. See {Dower}.]
1. A gift; endowment. [Obs.] --Spenser.
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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.
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3. A gift or presents for the bride, on espousal. See
{Dower}.
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Ask me never so much dowry and gift, and I will give
. . .; but give me the damsel to wife. --Gen. xxxiv.
12.
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