What does “Jump the broom” mean?
"Jump the broom" means to participate in a traditional African American wedding ceremony where the couple jumps over a broom as a symbol of their union.
What context can I use the in?
Example
They decided to jump the broom after dating for five years.
Example
The couple is planning to jump the broom next month.
Example
They had a small ceremony to jump the broom with their closest friends and family
Is “Jump the broom” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Jump the broom” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Jump the broom” effectively in context?
You can use "Jump the Broom" to refer to a wedding or getting married. It's often used in a celebratory context to describe the act of starting a new chapter in a relationship. For example, if a friend tells you they're engaged, you might say, 'Congratulations! When are you going to jump the broom?'
- 1Celebration
They decided to jump the broom after dating for five years.
- 2Future Plans
The couple is planning to jump the broom next month.
- 3Intimate Ceremony
They had a small ceremony to jump the broom with their closest friends and family.
Similar phrases to “Jump the broom”:
Say 'I do'
To agree to marry someone
Example
When the officiant asked if she would take him as her husband, she said 'I do'.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Jump the broom” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Jump the Broom" can be traced back to African American wedding traditions during slavery in the United States. Enslaved individuals were not legally allowed to marry, so they created their own ceremonies to symbolize their commitment. Jumping over a broomstick represented the joining of two households and the beginning of a new life together.
Is “Jump the broom” common in everyday conversation?
While "Jump the Broom" may not be as commonly used as some other idioms, it is still known and understood by many people, especially those familiar with African American wedding traditions. It is more commonly used in informal conversations or when discussing weddings and marriage.
What tone does “Jump the broom” have?
"Jump the Broom" conveys a tone of celebration and excitement. It is often used in a joyful context to talk about the union of two people in marriage.
Can “Jump the broom” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Jump the Broom" is generally used in informal settings, particularly when talking about weddings or marriage. It may not be appropriate for formal or professional situations unless specifically related to the topic.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'They decided to jump the broom and start their life together.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "jump the broom"!' to imply readiness for marriage.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- get hitched
- tie the knot
- say 'i do'
- walk down the aisle
- exchange vows
