betroth

[ bih-trohth, -trawth ]

verb (used with object)

1. to arrange for the marriage of; affiance (usually used in passive constructions):

   The couple was betrothed with the approval of both families.

   Synonyms: plight, pledge, promise, engage

2. Archaic. to promise to marry.

betroth

/ bɪˈtrəʊð /

verb

1. archaic.
   tr to promise to marry or to give in marriage

Word History and Origins

Origin of betroth¹

1275–1325; Middle English betrouthe, variant of betreuthe ( be- be- + treuthe truth; troth )

Word History and Origins

Origin of betroth¹

C14 betreuthen , from be- + treuthe troth , truth

Example Sentences

Despite the fiancé leaving Spain to join his aging parents on their sizeable farm in Tucumán, Argentina, the young lovers remain betrothed.

From Washington Blade

Soulemain, one of the construction workers, is in an illicit relationship with Ada, who is betrothed to another, wealthier match.

From Time

The pair were Lucy Schwob and Suzanne Malherbe, wealthy, avant-garde artists from France and romantically betrothed since their teenage years.

From Washington Post

But before permitting you to go I wish, not having been able to wed you myself, to betroth you to the one you have chosen.

From Project Gutenberg

It has pleased me to betroth Brighteyes to Gudruda, and it pleased me not to betroth her to Ospakar, and that is enough for thee.

From Project Gutenberg

She flew off to betroth herself; but Mr. Crane would have none of her, and she flew back again.

From Project Gutenberg

This will anger him greatly, for he wishes to betroth me to the son of the king of the Green City, whom I like not at all.'

From Project Gutenberg

Betroth your young princess to Montagu's son, the representative of all the Neviles.

From Project Gutenberg