How Do You Spell BETROTHAL?

Pronunciation: [bɪtɹˈə͡ʊðə͡l] (IPA)

Betrothal, pronounced /bɪˈtrəʊð(ə)l/, is the act of getting engaged, particularly in a formal or traditional context. The word originates from the Old English word "betroðian," meaning to promise or pledge oneself. The spelling of "betrothal" might pose some difficulty, particularly with the "th" sound in the middle of the word, which can sometimes be confused with "t". This sound is pronounced by placing the tip of the tongue between the top and bottom teeth and exhaling, creating a fricative sound.

BETROTHAL Meaning and Definition

1. Betrothal refers to the formal agreement or promise of marriage between two individuals. It is a legal and binding contract that signifies the intention of both parties to enter into matrimony at a specified future date. Betrothal is a customary practice in many cultures and has been followed for centuries.

   During the betrothal process, the couple and their families negotiate and establish various terms and conditions of the forthcoming marriage. These may include financial arrangements, dowry or bridal gifts, and other obligations or conditions. Betrothal is considered a serious commitment, and breaking the betrothal agreement may carry legal consequences or social stigma, depending on the cultural context.

   In some cultures, betrothal is considered equivalent to engagement, while in others, it is a more binding commitment resembling a prenuptial agreement. As part of the betrothal ceremony, the couple may exchange rings or other tokens as symbols of their commitment.

   Betrothal is often seen as the initial step towards marriage, with the actual wedding taking place at a later date. It serves to solidify the love and commitment between the betrothed individuals and allows them to prepare for their future together.

   Overall, betrothal represents a formally recognized promise of marriage, typically involving legal, financial, and social obligations. It is an important and culturally significant tradition that varies in its practices and significance across different societies.

2. A contract or agreement with a view to marriage.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for BETROTHAL *

• bethrothal 100%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for BETROTHAL

• brothal
• betrothall
• blennopthalmia
• betrotheal
• betrohthal
• betrotheil
• betorhthal
• Retrotsal

Etymology of BETROTHAL

The word "betrothal" derives from the Old English word "bethrothal" and is a combination of "be-" (meaning "to" or "thoroughly") and "troth" (meaning "keeping faith" or "pledge"). "Bethrothal" was formed by the Old English verb "beþéon" or "bétan", which meant "to promise" or "to betroth". The term "betrothal" eventually became the modern English word to refer to the act of getting engaged or making a formal promise of marriage.

Similar spelling words for BETROTHAL

• betroth,
• beetroot,
• betterton,
• betrothed.

Plural form of BETROTHAL is BETROTHALS