The spelling of the phrase "be married" in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /bi ˈmærid/. The first syllable is pronounced as "bee," while the second syllable rhymes with the word "carried." The spelling of "married" includes two r's to indicate a double consonant sound, where the second r is not pronounced. The use of a single vowel sound in "maried" versus two vowels in "married" also helps to distinguish the past tense of the word from the present tense.
To be married refers to the state of being legally and socially united in a recognized partnership or union between two individuals, typically a man and a woman, although many jurisdictions now recognize same-sex marriages. This status is generally accompanied by legal obligations, rights, and responsibilities, often including joint property ownership, financial interdependence, and mutual support.
Marriage is commonly considered to be a lifelong commitment based on love, trust, and companionship. It involves a ceremonial process generally conducted by a legal authority, such as a religious leader or government official, where the couple pledges their commitment to one another. It is typically celebrated with a wedding ceremony, which varies in form depending on cultural and religious customs.
Being married signifies a deeper emotional bond and interpersonal connection between partners, creating a legal and social framework for their relationship. This union often results in the formation of a family unit, where the couple may choose to have children and share the responsibilities of raising them.
Marriage is seen as a pillar of stability in many societies and is also associated with various social, legal, and economic benefits, such as tax advantages, inheritance rights, and access to healthcare and spousal benefits. It also signifies a public commitment, allowing individuals to publicly declare their love and commitment to one another in the presence of their friends, families, and communities.
Overall, being married encapsulates a legally recognized and culturally respected union between two individuals, indicative of their commitment, love, and desire to build a life together.
The word "married" originates from the Old English word "marian" or "merran", which means "to join together in marriage". These words find their roots in the Proto-Germanic word "mara-" or "merrijan", which translates to "to provide with a husband or wife" or "to get married". The Proto-Germanic word, in turn, stems from the Proto-Indo-European root "*mari-", meaning "young wife" or "bride". The word "marry" has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe the act of entering into the state of union between spouses.