A vinculo matrimonii

The phrase “a vinculo matrimonii” is derived from Latin and translates to “from the bond of marriage.” In legal terms, it is used to refer to a complete and absolute divorce which dissolves the marriage bond entirely. When a marriage is dissolved “a vinculo matrimonii,” it means that the marriage is considered null and void as if it never existed. This is different from a divorce “a mensa et thoro,” which is a legal separation that does not completely dissolve the marriage but allows the spouses to live separately.