Betrothal Meaning and Definition
Betrothal
Pronunciation
/ˈbɛtroʊθəl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A formal agreement or promise between two people to get married, typically involving a public declaration and the exchange of vows.
Examples
- The couple announced their betrothal on social media to share the news with their friends and family.
- The medieval lord negotiated a betrothal between his daughter and the son of a neighboring lord.
Synonyms
- Engagement
- PromISE
Antonyms
- Annulment
- Divorce
Etymology
From Old French ‘betrail’, from Latin ‘promissio’, from ‘promittere’, to send forth.
Usage Notes
While often used interchangeably, betrothal typically implies a more formal or public declaration of intent to marry, whereas engagement may be a more private arrangement.
Cultural References
Betrothal is a key concept in many traditional and cultural wedding customs, including ancient Greek and Roman rituals, as well as African and Asian cultures.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
‘Betrothed to someone’ means committed to marry them, while ‘betroth’ can mean to solemnly promise or engage to marry someone.
Related Words or Phrases
Engagement, promise, vow, marriage, union, unions, matrimony, espousal, espouse, wedlock.
Collocations
Betrothal of child, betrothal ceremony, public betrothal, secret betrothal, family betrothal.
Frequency of Use
Betrothal is not a commonly used term in everyday language, but it may be used in formal or historical contexts.
Common Misspellings
Betrotal, Betroile, Betroile, Bertonhal, Betrothol.