betrothal

/bɪˈtroʊðəl/

Other forms: betrothals

A betrothal is an engagement, a promise to marry. If you want to sound fancy when you’re about to get married, just mention your betrothal, preferably to a duke or duchess.

This 19th century word has roots meaning “faith” or “constancy,” and those meanings still hold — a betrothal is a promise to remain faithful and constant by getting married. A betrothal is basically a fancy word for an engagement. This word is slightly old-fashioned, and it also has an official, sophisticated flavor to it. After a proposal has been accepted, a couple will announce their betrothal to their friends and family. The couple is then betrothed to each other.

Definitions of betrothal

1. noun

   the act of becoming betrothed or engaged
   synonyms: espousal

   type of:

   rite, ritual

   any customary observance or practice
2. noun

   a mutual promise to marry
   synonyms: engagement, troth

   types:

   ringing

   the giving of a ring as a token of engagement

   type of:

   promise

   a verbal commitment by one person to another agreeing to do (or not to do) something in the future