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Definition of betrothal

betrothal

/bɪˈtroʊðəl/
be · troth · al
Plural:betrothals
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betrothal Lexical Profile

betrothal Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A formal mutual promise or contract for a future marriage; the state of being engaged to be married, or the ceremony marking such an agreement.

Example

"The royal family announced the official betrothal of the princess to the neighboring duke during the autumn banquet."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

"Betrothal" is primarily used in formal, historical, or traditional religious contexts; in everyday modern English, "engagement" is the standard term.

• Nearby Words

betrayal
betrayer
betroth
betrothal
betrothed
betta
better

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 19th century from the Middle English verb "betroth" (from "be-" + "troth," meaning truth or solemn pledge, from Old English "treowth") combined with the noun-forming suffix "-al."

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Betrothal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/betrothal
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