Marriage, also called matrimony or wedlock, is a culturally and often legally recognized union between people called spouses. It establishes rights and obligations between them, as well as between them and their children (if any), and their in-laws. Marriage is nearly a cultural universal, but the definition of marriage varies between cultures and religions, and over time. Typically, it is an institution in which interpersonal relationships, usually sexual, are acknowledged or sanctioned. In some cultures, marriage is recommended or considered compulsory before pursuing sexual activity, and sexual intercourse with others aside from one's spouse may be considered immoral or even illegal.
Globally, there has been a general trend toward ensuring equal rights for women in marriages with men and greater tolerance toward non-traditional couples. Love tops the list of Americans' reasons to marry, with approximately 88% citing it as a very important reason. The median age at first marriage has reached its highest point on record: 30 years for men and 28 years for women in 2018. In 2019, the divorce rate declined to levels not seen in 50 years, with only about 15 in every 1,000 marriages resulting in divorce. A 2021 Monmouth Poll found that 92% of married couples were either extremely or very satisfied in their marriage.
