betrothal

[bɪˈtrəʊð(ə)l]

betrothal Definition

• 1. the act of promising to marry someone
• 2. a mutual promise or agreement to marry

Using betrothal: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "betrothal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Their betrothal was announced in the local newspaper.

• Example

  The couple celebrated their betrothal with a party.

• Example

  In some cultures, betrothal is followed by a period of engagement before the wedding.

betrothal Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for betrothal

• engagement
• espousal
• promise
• troth
• fiancé(e)

Phrases with betrothal

• break off a betrothal

  end an engagement or promise to marry

  Example

  She broke off her betrothal to him when she found out he had been unfaithful.

• betrothal ceremony

  a formal event or ritual that marks the engagement or promise to marry

  Example

  The betrothal ceremony was held in the bride's family home.

• betrothal ring

  a ring given to signify the engagement or promise to marry

  Example

  He gave her a beautiful diamond betrothal ring.

Origins of betrothal

from Middle English 'betrothen', meaning 'to promise', from Old English 'betǣcan', meaning 'to entrust'

📌

Summary: betrothal in Brief

The term 'betrothal' [bɪˈtrəʊð(ə)l] refers to the act of promising to marry someone, often marked by a ceremony or exchange of rings. It is similar to an engagement, and may be followed by a period of waiting before the wedding. Examples include 'Their betrothal was announced in the local newspaper,' and 'In some cultures, betrothal is followed by a period of engagement before the wedding.'