betrothal

noun

be·​troth·​al bi-ˈtrō-t͟həl How to pronounce betrothal (audio) -ˈtrȯ- How to pronounce betrothal (audio)
-thəl,
bē-
1
: the act of betrothing or fact of being betrothed
2
: a mutual promise or contract for a future marriage

Examples of betrothal in a Sentence

They were both young at the time of their betrothal. the couple's betrothal lasted four years
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dobrev and White announced their betrothal to Vogue, which is only fair since White used the mag as a reason to trick Dobrev out of the house. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2024 The couple have been celebrating their betrothal since January, averaging an event every six weeks. Leah Dolan, CNN, 11 July 2024 Colin held his outstretched hand toward his carriage, beckoning for Penelope to come inside his home, despite the late hour, to announce their hasty betrothal. Katie Campione, Deadline, 13 June 2024 Now many of these voters, disillusioned after their brief betrothal to the Tories, are flocking back to Labour. Mark Landler, New York Times, 12 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for betrothal 

Word History

Etymology

betroth + -al entry 2

First Known Use

1683, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of betrothal was in 1683

Dictionary Entries Near betrothal

Cite this Entry

“Betrothal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/betrothal. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

betrothal

noun
be·​troth·​al -ˈtrōt͟h-əl How to pronounce betrothal (audio) -ˈtrȯth- How to pronounce betrothal (audio)
-ˈtrōth-
: an engagement to be married

More from Merriam-Webster on betrothal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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