wed
UK: wɛd | US: wɛd
vt. to marry or unite in marriage
vi. to take a spouse; enter into marriage
n. archaic term for a wedding
The word "wed" traces back to Old English weddian, meaning "to pledge" or "to covenant." It is rooted in the Proto-Germanic wadją (pledge, security), reflecting the idea of a solemn promise. Over time, it narrowed to specifically denote the act of marriage, retaining its core sense of commitment. The modern term "wedding" derives from this verb, emphasizing the ceremonial pledge.
They plan to wed in a small ceremony next spring.
In medieval times, couples would wed with simple vows.
The king decreed that nobles must wed within the court.
She chose to wed her childhood sweetheart.
The term "wed" is rarely used in modern English outside poetic contexts.