Arranged marriages, written as /əˈreɪndʒd/ /ˈmærɪdʒɪz/ in IPA phonetic transcription, is a type of marriage where the bride and groom are chosen by a third party, typically their families. The word "arranged" is pronounced with the schwa sound at the beginning, followed by a stressed "raynd" with a voiced "j" consonant, and then "d" at the end. "Marriages" is pronounced with a primary stress on the first syllable and a secondary stress on the third, with a long "a" sound followed by "r", "ih", "j", and "ihz".
Arranged marriages refer to unions in which the selection of a life partner is primarily or entirely orchestrated by the parents, family members, or other intermediaries of the individuals involved, as opposed to being based on personal choice or romantic love. These marriages are prevalent in various cultures and have been practiced for centuries.
In an arranged marriage, the families typically take the lead role in finding and evaluating potential matches for their sons and daughters. Factors such as social compatibility, economic status, educational background, religious beliefs, and family values play significant roles in the selection process. The individuals being married may have limited or no say in the matter, as the primary decision-making authority lies with their parents or guardians.
Arranged marriages are often rooted in traditions and customs, which vary widely across cultures and can be influenced by regional, religious, or caste norms. While historically they were commonly organized for political, economic, or alliance purposes, in modern times, arranged marriages are often chosen for reasons of cultural preservation, family honor, or the belief that parents' wisdom and experience will lead to a more harmonious and successful union.
Critics of arranged marriages argue that they can be oppressive, limiting personal freedom and autonomy, as individuals may feel compelled to conform to societal expectations and follow family wishes. On the other hand, proponents argue that arranged marriages can foster stable relationships, respect for elders, and stronger extended family bonds.
Overall, arranged marriages form an integral and complex part of the cultural fabric of many societies, with varying degrees of acceptance and controversy surrounding them.
The word "arranged" originated from the Middle English term "arranngen", which comes from the Old French "arranger" meaning "to put in order" or "to set straight". It further traces back to the Vulgar Latin "adrangare", a combination of the Latin prefix "ad" (meaning "to") and the Germanic word "rang" (meaning "row" or "rank").
The term "marriage" has its roots in the Old French word "marier" or "mariage", which ultimately derive from the Latin word "maritare" meaning "to marry" or "to wed".
Hence, the term "arranged marriage" combines the act of organizing or managing ("arranged") with the institution of a legally recognized union between spouses ("marriage").