handfast

noun

hand·​fast ˈhan(d)-ˌfast How to pronounce handfast (audio)
archaic
: a contract or covenant especially of betrothal or marriage

Examples of handfast in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Next, Jamie performs a two-sentence handfast ceremony. Lincee Ray, EW.com, 25 Apr. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'handfast.' 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, from Old English handfæst

First Known Use

circa 1616, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of handfast was circa 1616

Dictionary Entries Near handfast

Cite this Entry

“Handfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handfast. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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