Definitions of marriage terms

Marriage — A consensual and contractual union for life, meting the legal requirements established by the state, with those requirements varying from state to state. Results in the creation or formation of kinships — or family — with the two marriage partners united legally, economically and emotionally.

Traditional marriage — Commonly used to describe marriage between a man and a woman.

Same-sex marriage — Also referred to as gay marriage, is the legal union of two individuals of the same gender.

Civil union — One of a state's legal alternatives to same-sex marriage, providing all the state spousal rights and benefits to a couple without the title of marriage. Does not allow for federal benefits or protections. Can be used by couples beyond same-sex partners, such as senior man-and-wife couple not wanting to wed.

Domestic partnerships — Another of a state's legal alternatives to same-sex marriage. Depending on the state allowances, can provide all, many or only a certain few of the state spousal rights and benefits afforded a marriage couple. Usually requires a partnership to be registered to receive benefits.

Spousal rights and benefits — Benefits and protections provided by governments on both the federal and state levels. Benefits include those for tax breaks, Social Security, veterans, health insurance, Medicaid, hospital visitation, inheritance without a will, estate taxes, retirement savings, pensions, organ donation, family leave and immigration-law protections.

Defense of Marriage Act — Passed by Congress and signed into law in 1996 by President Clinton. Defines marriage as a legal union between a man and a woman for the purposes of all federal laws. Also gives each state the rights to define marriage and to recognize — or not recognize — same-sex marriages performed in other states. Similar DOMA language included by many states in their statutes.

Constitutional marriage amendments — Passed by 30 states. Defines marriage as between a man and a woman. Stronger language against civil unions and/or domestic partnerships included in some constitutional amendments. Provides a way for states to keep state-level judges from overturning state marriage statutes as being "unconstitutional."