Betrothal is a term that is often used in the context of marriage and engagements. It is a formal agreement between two individuals or families to marry at a later date. This practice has been around for centuries and is still prevalent in many cultures around the world. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of betrothal.
Definitions
Betrothal is defined as a formal engagement to be married. It is a promise or agreement between two individuals or families to marry at a later date. The betrothal period is the time between the agreement and the actual wedding ceremony.
Origin
The practice of betrothal can be traced back to ancient times. It was a common practice in many cultures around the world, including ancient Rome, Greece, and the Middle East. In these cultures, betrothal was seen as a binding agreement between two families to unite their children in marriage.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, betrothal is “the act of betrothing or being betrothed; a mutual promise or contract to marry.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a mutual promise or contract for a future marriage.”
Associations
Betrothal is often associated with engagement and marriage. It is a formal agreement between two individuals or families to marry at a later date. In some cultures, betrothal is seen as a binding agreement that cannot be broken.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of betrothal include engagement, promise, agreement, and contract.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of betrothal include separation, divorce, and annulment.
The same root words
The root word of betrothal is “troth,” which means faith or loyalty. Other words that share this root include “truth” and “trust.”
Example Sentences
- The couple’s betrothal was announced at a family gathering.
- The betrothal period is a time for the couple to get to know each other better.
- The betrothal ceremony was a solemn and formal affair.
- The families agreed to a betrothal contract that included specific terms and conditions.
Betrothal is a formal agreement between two individuals or families to marry at a later date. It is a practice that has been around for centuries and is still prevalent in many cultures around the world. Understanding the definition, origin, and meaning of betrothal can provide insight into the importance and significance of this tradition.