Wedding Meaning and Definition
Wedding
Pronunciation
/ˈwɛdɪŋ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A wedding is a ceremony in which two people or a man and a woman are joined in marriage, signaling their commitment to each other and their union as a family.
Examples
1. “They exchanged their vows in a beautiful outdoor wedding surrounded by friends and family.”
2. “The wedding reception featured a catering service, a photo booth, and a DJ spinning popular tunes.”
Synonyms
1. Marriage
2. Union
Antonyms
1. Divorce
2. Separation
Additional Information
Weddings are typically celebrated with a ceremony and a reception, followed by a honeymoon period for the newlyweds to travel and spend quality time together. The wedding party may include a bride, groom, best man, maid of honor, bridesmaids, and groomsmen. The reception often features traditional foods, drinks, and music, as well as speeches, toasts, and dancing.
Weddings can be elaborate and expensive, but they can also be intimate and low-key. Some weddings take place in traditional venues, such as churches or hotels, while others may be held outdoors or in non-traditional settings. Regardless of the specifics, weddings are a significant life event for couples and their loved ones.
The tradition of wedding anniversaries is a way to commemorate the passage of time and celebrate the couple’s commitment to each other. Each year, the couple can exchange gifts or participate in a special activity to honor their union.
Culture and customs surrounding weddings vary widely around the world, reflecting local traditions, values, and practices. From the Chinese tea ceremony to the Indian “baraat” procession, wedding celebrations are a unique reflection of the community and family that comes together to celebrate the union.
Etymology
The word “wedding” comes from the Old English words “wedu” (pledge) and “ing” (act of), denoting the binding or union of two people in marriage. The term has evolved over time to encompass a broader range of practices and customs surrounding the institution of marriage.
Usage Notes
The word “wedding” can be used in various contexts, including social events, formal ceremonies, and everyday language. It is essential to consider the tone and level of formality when using this word.
Cultural References
The iconic wedding scene from the movie “The Wedding Singer” features a memorable performance by Adam Sandler, while the TV show “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” explores the complexities of wedding planning and cultural identity.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions related to weddings include:
- “Till death do us part”
- “To have and to hold”
- “For better or for worse”
Collocations
Some common collocations with the term “wedding” include:
- Wedding ring
- Wedding dress
- Wedding cake
- Wedding photographer
Frequency of Use
The word “wedding” is frequently used in everyday language, especially during peak wedding seasons, to convey joy, excitement, and commitment. However, it can also be a significant burden on finances, social connections, and individual aspirations.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings or variations of the word “wedding” include:
- Wedding
- Wedding
- Wedding’s
- Weddings