Consummation
Updated:Consummation refers to the first act of sexual intercourse between a married couple, traditionally occurring on their wedding night. This act is considered to "complete" or "consummate" the marriage, both in cultural and sometimes legal contexts. Historically, consummation has been viewed as a crucial element in validating a marriage.
Additional Information
While the concept of consummation has roots in many cultures and religions, its importance in legal terms has diminished in many modern societies. However, it can still play a role in certain legal situations, such as annulments. It's important to note that the pressure to consummate a marriage immediately after the wedding can be stressful for some couples, and many modern couples choose to approach their first sexual experience as newlyweds at their own pace.
Examples
In some historical contexts, failure to consummate a marriage could be grounds for annulment.
Modern couples might joke about "consummating the marriage" without feeling obligated to do so on their wedding night.