Betrothal: meaning, definitions and examples
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betrothal
[ bɪˈtroʊð(ə)l ]
romantic relationship
The act of entering into a formal agreement to marry; engagement.
Synonyms
engagement, promise to marry, troth
Examples of usage
- Their betrothal was announced at the family gathering.
- The betrothal ceremony was a traditional affair with family and friends present.
historical context
A formal promise or agreement to enter into a marriage.
Synonyms
espousal, handfasting, plighting of troth
Examples of usage
- In medieval times, betrothals were often arranged by families.
- The betrothal contract was signed by both parties and their families as a legal agreement.
Translations
Translations of the word "betrothal" in other languages:
🇵🇹 noivado
🇮🇳 सगाई
🇩🇪 Verlobung
🇮🇩 pertunangan
🇺🇦 заручини
🇵🇱 zaręczyny
🇯🇵 婚約 (こんやく)
🇫🇷 fiançailles
🇪🇸 compromiso
🇹🇷 nişanlanma
🇰🇷 약혼 (yakheon)
🇸🇦 خطوبة
🇨🇿 zasnoubení
🇸🇰 zasnúbenie
🇨🇳 订婚 (dìnghūn)
🇸🇮 zaroka
🇮🇸 trúlofun
🇰🇿 құда түсу
🇬🇪 ნიშნობა (nishnoba)
🇦🇿 nişan
🇲🇽 compromiso
Word origin
The word 'betrothal' comes from the Middle English word 'betrothen', which is derived from the Old English word 'betrūwan', meaning 'to promise truth'. Betrothal has been a common practice throughout history, often involving formal agreements and ceremonies to signify the intention to marry. In many cultures, betrothals were arranged by families for economic, social, or political reasons.