Dow″ry (?), n.; pl.Dowries (#). [Contr. from dowery; cf. LL. dotarium. See Dower.] 1. A gift; endowment. 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.