The term “born out of wedlock” is a phrase that has been used for centuries to describe a child who is born to parents who are not legally married. This phrase has been used in many different contexts, and it carries with it a certain stigma in some cultures. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “born out of wedlock,” as well as its origins, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
Born out of wedlock is a term used to describe a child who is born to parents who are not legally married. It is a legal term that is used to describe a child’s status in relation to their parents’ marital status. In some countries, the term “illegitimate” is also used to describe a child who is born out of wedlock.
Origin
The phrase “born out of wedlock” has been used for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages. During this time, children who were born to unmarried parents were considered to be illegitimate and were often stigmatized by society.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of “born out of wedlock” is relatively consistent across different dictionaries. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “born to unmarried parents,” while Merriam-Webster defines it as “born to parents who are not married to each other.”
Associations
The term “born out of wedlock” is often associated with negative connotations, particularly in more conservative societies. In some cultures, children who are born out of wedlock are seen as a source of shame and are often stigmatized by society.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for “born out of wedlock,” including illegitimate, bastard, and love child. These terms are often used interchangeably, although they may carry slightly different connotations.
Antonyms
The antonym of “born out of wedlock” is “born in wedlock,” which refers to a child who is born to parents who are legally married.
The same root words
There are no significant root words associated with “born out of wedlock,” although the term “illegitimate” is often used as a synonym.
Example Sentences
- John was born out of wedlock, but his parents later got married.
- The child was stigmatized by society because he was born to unmarried parents.
- In some cultures, children who are born out of wedlock are seen as a source of shame.
“Born out of wedlock” is a term that has been used for centuries to describe a child who is born to parents who are not legally married. While the term carries with it a certain stigma in some cultures, it is a legal term that is used to describe a child’s status in relation to their parents’ marital status. Despite its negative connotations in some contexts, it is important to remember that every child is valuable and deserving of love and respect, regardless of their parents’ marital status.