trial marriage

noun

1. an arrangement by which a couple live together for a period of time to see if they are compatible for marriage.

Word History and Origins

Origin of trial marriage¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

And then there’s that trial marriage.

From New York Times

I’m also assuming this is a one-year trial marriage of the new coaching staff and the existing coach-killing quarterback.

From Chicago Tribune

Young Americans like the idea of trial marriage because they already think “everything is in beta” and “life is a work in progress,” study author Melissa Lavigne-Delville told Time.

From Washington Times

The interim membership is like a two-year trial marriage for both sides, during which Ms. Sim wants to organize group projects and expand the agency’s presence in Asia.

From New York Times

This is “no longer a trial marriage,” he said.

From New York Times