The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Dowry \Dow"ry\ (dou"r[y^]), n.; pl. Dowries (dou"r[i^]z).
   [Contr. from dowery; cf. LL. dotarium. See Dower.]
   1. A gift; endowment. [Obs.] --Spenser.
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   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.
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   3. A gift or presents for the bride, on espousal. See
      Dower.
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            Ask me never so much dowry and gift, and I will give
            . . .; but give me the damsel to wife. --Gen. xxxiv.
                                                  12.
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