Phrase Finder

Hand in marriage

Posted by Woodchuck April 28, 2003In reply to Hand in marriage posted by S. Ryan on April 28, 2003

Apology for double posting another question on the same subject, but a friend of mine is getting married next week and has been asking the origins of certain marriage rituals and sayings. To give one's hand in marriage is a commonly used phrase, but can anyone help with the origin?

I believe it's in reference to the old Celtic handfasting ritual.

Replies

  • Handfasting and trial marriage Word Camel 04/29/03
    • And Lewis 05/02/03