Final answer:
Marriage is the formation of a socially recognized union between two or more people and serves multiple functions in different cultures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Marriage is the formation of a socially recognized union between two or more people. It can be a union between a man and a woman, between same-sex couples, or even involve multiple spouses in polygamous societies. While the primary purpose of marriage is often to raise and nurture offspring, it can also serve other functions such as creating alliances between individuals and families or providing political and economic advantages. Overall, marriage is a universal institution found in various cultures with different definitions and variations.