1. Material assets such as money or property that is provided by a bride to her husband at the time of their marriage. In certain cultures, this type of act is a common occurrence amongst couple uniting in holy matrimony. Dowry is thought of as a way to bless the marriage and help the husband establish a stable home for his new family. 2. Money required by a religious official at the time of a marriage ceremony. "Ted and Brit had to make a dowry payment to their priest before he would perform their wedding ceremony."