wedlock
UK: ˈwɛdlɒk | US: ˈwɛdlɑːk
n. the state of being married; matrimony
wedlock = wed<marry> + lock<state/bond>
- wed (from Old English weddian, meaning "to pledge or marry")
- lock (from Old English loc, meaning "fastening" or "bond," metaphorically extended to mean "state")
Etymology Origin:
The word "wedlock" originates from Old English wedlāc, combining wedd (pledge/marriage) and -lāc (a suffix denoting action or state, related to lock as a binding). It originally referred to the marital pledge or bond itself, later evolving to mean the state of marriage. The "-lock" component reflects the idea of a binding union, akin to a physical lock securing two parts together.
They entered into wedlock after a long courtship.
In some cultures, wedlock is considered a sacred institution.
The couple celebrated 25 years of wedlock last month.
Legal rights often change upon entering wedlock.
Their wedlock was marked by mutual respect and understanding.