dowry

This term carries a strong historical and cultural connotation, often associated with traditional marriage customs where wealth was transferred to secure a bride's social standing or support her new household. In modern Western contexts, it is frequently viewed as an archaic or outdated practice, whereas in some other cultures, it remains a significant social expectation.

When used in a non-marital sense, the word describes a foundational endowment or a substantial initial gift. This usage is more formal and less common than the marital sense, typically appearing in legal, institutional, or high-society contexts to describe the assets required to establish a new entity or position.