consortium

The definition of a consortium is an association or alliance, or a legal right of one spouse to have companionship and support with the other.

(noun)

See consortium in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun pl. consortia

a partnership or association; specif.,
1. a temporary alliance of two or more business firms in a common venture
2. an international banking agreement or association
Law the companionship and support provided by marriage, including the right of each spouse to receive this from the other

Origin: L, community of goods: see consort

See consortium in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. con·sor·ti·a (-tē-ə, -shē-ə)

a. An association or a combination, as of businesses, financial institutions, or investors, for the purpose of engaging in a joint venture.
b. A cooperative arrangement among groups or institutions: a library consortium.
An association or society.
Law The right of a spouse to the company of, help of, affection of, and sexual relations with his or her mate.

Origin:

Origin: Latin, fellowship

Origin: , from cōnsors, cōnsort-, partner; see consort

Related Forms: