wedlock

noun

wed·​lock ˈwed-ˌläk How to pronounce wedlock (audio)
: the state of being married : marriage, matrimony
Phrases
out of wedlock
: with the natural parents not legally married to each other

Examples of wedlock in a Sentence

joined the happy couple in holy wedlock
Recent Examples on the Web The restoration of virtue and bodily sanctity were of paramount importance, and many felt that having a child out of wedlock would threaten those aims. Kali Nicole Gross / Made By History, TIME, 19 Sep. 2024 Alexander Hamilton was born out of wedlock and committed adultery. Bruce Fein, Baltimore Sun, 9 Aug. 2024 In House of the Dragon lore, an affair out of wedlock would ordinarily rank as a minor indiscretion, but carries heavy emotional weight, given the relationship between Corlys and Rhaenys (Eve Best) was one based on love rather than politicking or expediency. Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 21 July 2024 So, Leonardo is this gay man born out of wedlock who is the greatest painter of all time in some people’s minds. Addie Morfoot, Variety, 23 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for wedlock 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'wedlock.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English wedlok, from Old English wedlāc marriage bond, from wedd pledge + -lāc, suffix denoting activity

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wedlock was in the 13th century

Dictionary Entries Near wedlock

Cite this Entry

“Wedlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wedlock. Accessed 3 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

wedlock

noun
wed·​lock ˈwed-ˌläk How to pronounce wedlock (audio)
: the state of being married

More from Merriam-Webster on wedlock

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