Wedding

Definition

Wedding is a noun referring to a ceremony in which two people are united in marriage. It often includes rituals, celebrations, and traditions specific to cultural or religious contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɛd.ɪŋ/
• Respelling: WED-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɛd.ɪŋ/
• Respelling: WED-ing

Etymology

The word "wedding" originates from Old English "weddian," meaning "to pledge or vow," derived from Proto-Germanic "*wadją" and Proto-Indo-European "*wadh-" meaning "to pledge or bind." It evolved into its modern sense of a marriage ceremony by the late Middle Ages.

Derivatives

• Wed (verb)
• Wedded (adjective)
• Wedding-day (noun)
• Wedding-ring (noun)
• Wedding-planner (noun)

Synonyms

• Marriage
• Nuptials
• Ceremony

Antonyms

• Divorce
• Separation
• None

Usage

The noun "wedding" is used to describe the ceremony and associated celebrations that mark the beginning of a marriage. For example, "The wedding was held in a beautiful garden."

It often appears in phrases like "wedding day," "wedding vows," and "wedding reception."

Related Terms

• Marriage: A legally or formally recognized union of two people.
• Engagement: The period before a wedding when two people are committed to marrying each other.
• Ceremony: A formal event marking a significant occasion.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A ceremony uniting two people in marriage: Refers to the formal event where vows are exchanged and a legal or religious marriage is performed.
  • Example: "Their wedding took place in a historic church."
• The celebrations and rituals associated with a marriage ceremony: Includes receptions, feasts, and dances.
  • Example: "The wedding reception was held at a grand hotel."
• An occasion signifying union or partnership: Can be used metaphorically to describe the coming together of ideas or elements.
  • Example: "The project was a wedding of art and technology."