A woman on her wedding day or just before and after her wedding. The female partner in a marriage ceremony.
From Old English brȳd, related to Germanic words meaning 'cooking' or 'brewing'. Originally referred to a young woman of marriageable age who could manage household duties.
The connection to cooking reveals how marriage was historically viewed as an economic arrangement about household management. Modern brides often reclaim this by choosing to cook their own wedding cakes or signature dishes for their celebrations.
The term historically centered female identity on marital status and economic transaction, with no parallel 'groom' designation for male worth. Wedding language reinforced women's role as property transfer.
Use when describing someone choosing marriage; consider 'partner' or 'spouse-to-be' for gender-neutral contexts.
["spouse-to-be","partner","marrying person"]
Women have reclaimed 'bride' as empowerment; recognize brides who define marriage on their own terms.
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