WordGarden.iowedlock
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /wˈɛdlɒk/
US
- /ˈwɛdˌlɑk/
Meanings
Noun
the state of being married; marriage
Beyond the definition
"Wedlock" is not just about the wedding day; it is about the state of being married. Think of it as the official, legal bond between two people. While "marriage" is the common word, "wedlock" has a more formal or old-fashioned tone, so you might see it in historical novels or legal writing. It is often used when talking about children born within marriage ("born in wedlock") rather than outside it. In stories, a person may feel trapped in an unhappy marriage, and "wedlock" can bring out that sense of duty, pressure, and legal ties.
"Wedlock" refers to the condition of being married; the legally recognized union between two people. It's more than just a ceremony or a celebration—it's the established status that comes with legal rights and responsibilities. While "marriage" is the everyday term, "wedlock" often appears in contexts where the legality of the marital state is emphasized.
Historically, wedlock carried significant social weight, particularly concerning inheritance, the legitimacy of children, and societal expectations. Phrases like "born in wedlock" were crucial for determining a child's rights and social standing. Even today, legal discussions around divorce or parental rights may use the term "wedlock" to clarify the marital context of a situation.
You might encounter it in literature, especially when exploring themes of social convention, duty, or the constraints placed upon individuals. A character might be described as "trapped in wedlock," suggesting a lack of freedom or personal happiness. Similarly, many historical stories explore the social consequences of being born "out of wedlock."
While less common in casual conversation than simply saying "marriage," understanding "wedlock" adds nuance to discussions about family and legal status. It is a word that carries echoes of tradition, legality, and the long-standing social expectations surrounding the union of two people.
Examples
- 1
Legal status
In that time, children born out of wedlock often had fewer legal rights.
- Phraseout of wedlock
when a child's parents are not married
- 2
Legal contrast
The old law treated a child born in wedlock differently from one born out of wedlock.
- Phrasein wedlock
when a child's parents are married
- 3
Formal tone
The phrase sounds formal and old-fashioned, so many people now say "outside marriage" instead of "out of wedlock."
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- wedlocknoun