bridewealth

Etymology

From bride + wealth.

noun

  1. Synonym of bride price.“Textiles on Sumba are both clothing and the currency of traditional ceremonial exchange: Many fine folded cloths must be presented at each marriage as part of a counterpayment for a bridewealth paid in horses, buffalo, and gold, and at each funeral as a sign of mourning and later also a counterpayment for animals contributed to the slaughter.”