What does "dowry" commonly refer to?

The term "dowry" commonly refers to a gift or money that is brought by a bride to her husband or his family at the time of marriage. This practice is often rooted in various cultural traditions and can vary significantly in terms of meaning and customs across different societies. The dowry might include cash, goods, or property and is intended to enhance the bride's status within her new family or to serve as a form of financial support for her in the event of hardship. This practice has historical implications in terms of marriage arrangements and economic considerations between families.

The other options relate to different concepts that do not connect with the tradition of dowry. Agricultural techniques, land prices, and crop rotation methods are distinct from the social and cultural practice exemplified by a dowry. Each of these alternatives represents a category relevant to agriculture or economics, whereas the correct answer touches on marriage customs, illustrating the diverse meanings that the term "dowry" can embody in various cultural contexts.