Dowry
In certain cultures, marriage involves a gift from the family of the bride or groom to the other's family. In many societies, for example, the bride's family gives money or property to the groom or his family. Such a gift is called a dowry. In some cases, the dowry is given to the bride so that she and her husband may benefit from it. In other cultures, the groom and his family present gifts to the family of the bride. This offering is called a bride price.
Excerpt adapted from the "Marriage" article, The World Book Encyclopedia © 1999