betrothal
|be/tro/thal|
B2
🇺🇸
/bɪˈtroʊðəl/
🇬🇧
/bɪˈtrəʊðəl/
formal engagement
Etymology
Etymology Information
'betrothal' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'betrothen,' where 'be-' meant 'about' and 'troth' meant 'truth or pledge.'
Historical Evolution
'betrothen' transformed into the modern English word 'betrothal' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a pledge of truth or faith,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a formal engagement to marry.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a formal agreement to marry; an engagement.
Their betrothal was announced in the local newspaper.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35