Dow"ry (?), n.; pl.
Dowries (#). [Contr. from dowery; cf. LL.
dotarium. See Dower.] 1. A gift;
endowment. [Obs.] Spenser.
2. The money, goods, or estate, which a woman
brings to her husband in marriage; a bride's portion on her marriage.
See Note under Dower. Shak. Dryden.
3. A gift or presents for the bride, on
espousal. See Dower.
Ask me never so much dowry and gift, and I will
give . . .; but give me the damsel to wife.
Gen.
xxxiv. 12.