Synonyms and Related Words for Betroth
(4.8)
• 99 lessons, 232 activities
• Dictionary, thesaurus, workbook
• TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE, ACT
(4.8)
• 70 lessons, 175 activities
• Dictionary, thesaurus, workbook
• TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE, ACT
betroth
Betroth (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:
What does betroth mean?
To enter into an engagement or formal agreement to marry someone.
"He decided to betroth his longtime girlfriend during a romantic trip to Paris."
Detailed Meaning of Betroth
It is a legally binding commitment that is often accompanied by the exchange of rings or other tokens of affection. When someone is betrothed to another, it implies a serious and committed relationship that is recognized by both families and the wider community. Betrothal has been a common practice throughout history, and in some cultures, it is still used today as a way to cement social or political alliances. The act of betrothing someone typically involves a ceremony or exchange of vows, and it is often followed by a period of engagement, during which the couple prepares for their upcoming wedding.
Example Sentences for Betroth
1. The king decided to betroth his daughter to the prince of the neighboring kingdom.
2. In their culture, parents typically betroth their children at a young age.
3. They plan to betroth their daughter to a family friend's son when they come of age.
4. She was shocked to hear her father betroth her to a stranger for political gain.
5. As a sign of peace between the two tribes, the chief decided to betroth his son to the rival chief's daughter.
6. He found it hard to accept when his parents decided to betroth him to someone he barely knew.
Origin and Etymology of Betroth
The verb 'betroth' has its etymological origins in Old English and Middle English. It is derived from the Old English word 'betrowan,' which means 'to promise or pledge,' especially in the context of marriage. This Old English term later evolved into 'betroth' in Middle English. The notion of 'betrothing' or being 'betrothed' involved making a formal promise or commitment to marry someone, often involving the exchange of vows or a contractual agreement. Over time, the term 'betroth' came to signify the act of entering into an engagement or formal agreement to marry, reflecting the historical practice of formalizing such commitments in marriage ceremonies. Thus, the etymology of 'betroth' reflects its historical association with the promise and pledge to marry, which is a key element in the institution of marriage.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
Find the correct meaning of the verb betroth:
Try Again!
Correct!
More Usage Examples of Betroth
1. The ancient tradition compelled the royal family to betroth the princess to the knight who won the tournament.
2. The family had a huge celebration to announce they were going to betroth their eldest son to a local girl.
3. As part of the peace treaty, the emperor agreed to betroth his daughter to the son of his former enemy.
4. He was saddened when he learned that his parents planned to betroth him while he was still in love with someone else.
5. The monarch decided to betroth his heir to a noblewoman from another kingdom to forge an alliance.
6. Despite her protestations, her family decided to betroth her to the wealthy businessman.
7. The elders of the village decided to betroth the young maiden to the brave warrior as a reward for his valor.
8. His parents decided to betroth him to their friend's daughter, following a longstanding tradition in their community.
9. The queen regent chose to betroth her son to the princess of a powerful neighboring kingdom for political advantage.
10. Against his will, his family decided to betroth him to the daughter of the local lord.
11. The village chief announced his decision to betroth his daughter to the most skilled hunter in the tribe.
12. Her parents decided to betroth her to the young scholar, appreciating his intelligence and humility.
13. To cement the alliance, the two royal families agreed to betroth their children.
14. In a surprising move, the head of the family decided to betroth his son to a commoner's daughter.
Related Vocabulary Practice
Options and Determinations
Choose an activity:
Continuation and Perseverance
Choose an activity:
Family and Relationships
Choose an activity:
✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
✔ All-in-one dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.
✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities, 632 pages.
✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.
✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT