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

He had invented trial marriage before sociology was a science.

From Project Gutenberg

The trial marriage is a blending of the customs of both of these.

From Project Gutenberg

Nevertheless he worked on and the trial marriage is his solution of the problem.

From Project Gutenberg

However, it should be said that even a contract marriage is a trial marriage to a great degree.

From Project Gutenberg

I have already spoken of the unusual custom of the trial marriage which exists among the natives of the Far North.

From Project Gutenberg