The word "bridesman" is spelled with a combination of the letters "b-r-i-d-e-s-m-a-n" and is pronounced /ˈbraɪdzmən/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. Traditionally, the term "bridesmaid" is used to refer to a female attendant for the bride, but in modern times, brides may choose to include male friends or family members as part of their bridal party, often referred to as a "bridesman". The spelling and pronunciation of this word accurately reflect its meaning and usage in contemporary English.
Bridesman is a noun that refers to a male attendant or member of the wedding party who plays a role traditionally associated with bridesmaids. Often chosen by the bride, a bridesman is a close friend, relative, or significant other of the bride who is given a special position and duties in the bridal party. Similar to a bridesmaid, they support and assist the bride throughout the various stages of the wedding planning process and on the wedding day itself.
The role of a bridesman may vary depending on the traditions and preferences of the couple. Typically, a bridesman participates in pre-wedding festivities, such as engagement parties, bridal showers, and bachelorette parties, alongside the bridesmaids. During the wedding ceremony, a bridesman may accompany the bridesmaids down the aisle or perform other symbolic tasks, such as handling the bride's bouquet or standing beside her at the altar. They may also actively participate in wedding-related tasks, such as dress shopping, wedding decor decisions, or leading certain events at the reception.
The concept of having a bridesman reflects the evolving nature of wedding customs, challenging traditional gender roles and emphasizing the importance of friendship and support within the wedding party. The term acknowledges the desire to include cherished male friends in a traditionally female-dominated role, allowing the bride to surround herself with loved ones regardless of their gender.
The word "bridesman" is derived from combining "bride" and the Old English word "man" which meant "person" or "servant". In Old English, people often used gender-neutral terms, so the word "bridesman" referred to both male and female attendants who served the bride during a wedding ceremony. Over time, the word "bridesmaid" emerged as a specific term for female attendants, and "bridesman" became more gendered in its usage, referring primarily to male attendants.