Dowry (noun)

1. Property, money, or goods that a woman brings to her husband at the time of their marriage.
2. Property, money or other valuable given by the bride's family to the groom or his family, typically to secure the marriage.

Origin:

Mid 16th century: from anglo-norman french dowerie, from dower "endowment, gift".

Examples:

1. In some cultures, the dowry is still an important aspect of a marriage arrangement.
2. The groom's family asked for a large dowry before agreeing to the marriage.
3. The bride's parents had to sell property to pay for the dowry.
4. The dowry was used to establish a trust for the couple's future children.
5. The dowry was returned to the bride's family in case of divorce.