Morganatic

usgb/ˌmɔːrɡəˈnætɪk/
adjective

Describes a marriage in which one person is of a lower social rank than the other, and where the person of lower rank does not receive the spouse's title or property.

The king entered into a morganatic marriage with a commoner, which meant she would not become queen.
Visual representation of "morganatic" - Describes a marriage in which one person is of a lower social rank than the other, and where the person of lower rank does not receive the spouse's title or property.

Often appears as...

  • morganatic marriage
  • morganatic union

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Technical

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "morganatic"
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Historical Context

Morganatic was more common in royal or noble contexts, particularly in Europe, to describe unequal societal-status marriages.

Illustration for Historical Context
Prince Alexander's morganatic marriage barred his children from succession.
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Limited Rights

The lower-ranking spouse in a morganatic marriage does not gain the rights usually associated with marrying into a higher rank.

Illustration for Limited Rights
Despite being married to a duke, her morganatic status meant she had no claim to his estates.
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Inequality Emphasis

'Morganatic' underlines the inequality between spouses regarding social status or title inheritance.

Illustration for Inequality Emphasis
Their morganatic union was seen as controversial due to the disparity in their social standings.
Visual representation of the word "Morganatic"

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