A2noun1K

Wedding

UK /["/ˈwedɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈwedɪŋ/"]/

Definition

a marriage ceremony, and the meal or party that usually follows it

In simple words: A special ceremony where two people marry each other.

Examples

  • I attended a beautiful wedding last weekend.
  • My sister is planning her wedding in the spring.
  • The wedding ceremony was held in a lovely garden.
  • During the wedding, the couple exchanged rings as a symbol of their love.
  • He proposed at her favorite restaurant before the wedding.
  • They were married in a traditional wedding that honored their heritage.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Appropriate for discussing the event itself, invitations, planning, and celebrations. Avoid using in a casual setting where the formality isn't required.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'wed-ding' as a ding of a bell announcing 'we said I do!'

Collocations

  • church
  • registry office
  • traditional
  • have
  • go through with
  • attend
  • go ahead
  • go off
  • take place
  • day
  • night
  • invitation
  • at a/​the wedding

Synonyms

  • nuptials
  • marriage ceremony
  • bridal ceremony
  • matrimony

Antonyms

  • divorce
  • breakup

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'marriage' which refers to the state rather than the event.
  • Using 'wedding' to refer to bridal showers or engagement parties.
  • Mixing up with 'wedding reception' which is the party following the wedding.