civil union

noun

1. a relationship between a couple that is legally recognized by a governmental authority and has many of the rights and responsibilities of marriage:

   civil unions for same-sex couples.

2. civil marriage.

Word History and Origins

Origin of civil union¹

First frecorded in 1835–40

Example Sentences

Romania is one of the few European Union members that allows neither same-sex marriage nor civil unions, despite a growing social acceptance of LGBTQ+ people.

From Seattle Times

And Vermont was the only state at the time that allowed civil unions.

From New York Times

It was made clear the blessing shouldn’t be connected to a civil union ceremony.

From Washington Times

It also emphasizes that such a blessing should not be performed during a civil union or with clothes or gestures affiliated with a wedding.

From Los Angeles Times

Last year, members of Parliament debated several legal amendments to allow either marriage equality or civil unions, which did not give LGBTQ+ couples all of the same rights as heterosexual couples.

From Seattle Times