Remarriages

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. The act of marrying someone again after a previous marriage has ended whether by divorce or death
  2. A union between individuals who have previously been married, establishing a new legal or romantic bond
  3. The process by which one finds a new partner through marriage after the dissolution of a prior marital relationship

Etymology: The term "remarriages" refers to the act of marrying again after a previous marriage has ended, whether through divorce or death. The word is a compound derived from the prefix "re-" and "marriage." The prefix "re-" comes from Latin "re-", meaning "again" or "back," which indicates repetition or return. "Marriage" itself traces its roots back to the Old French word "mariage," which entered English in the early 14th century. This French term is derived from the Latin "maritare," meaning "to wed," which is rooted in "maritus," meaning "husband." The evolution of this term reflects broader social changes regarding relationships and family structures. In earlier centuries, the concept of remarriage was often laden with stigma, particularly for women who were expected to maintain a certain social standing and reputation. However, as societal norms evolved, especially through the 19th and 20th centuries, the idea of remarriage became more accepted, reflecting a shift towards individual happiness and the recognition of the complexities of human relationships. The first recorded uses of the word in its plural form appear in English texts around the mid-20th century, coinciding with increasing divorce rates and changing attitudes towards marriage. This shift in perception likely contributed to the emergence of terms like "remarriage," which encapsulated the idea that love and companionship are not limited to a single lifetime experience but can be pursued anew after previous unions. In contemporary discourse, remarriages are often associated with blended families, highlighting the multifaceted nature of modern relationships. This term captures not only the act of marrying again but also the emotional and social dynamics that accompany such decisions, illustrating how language evolves alongside human experiences.

Synonyms: second marriages

Antonyms: divorces