Table of Contents
Welcome to the world of weddings! Have you ever wondered about the special words we use to describe this joyous celebration? Learning English vocabulary for weddings is exciting because it helps us understand and participate in this beautiful event. Imagine being able to talk about the bride, groom, ceremony, and all the elements that make a wedding memorable. In this lesson, we’ll explore essential words and phrases related to weddings. Are you ready to walk down the aisle of English vocabulary? Let’s celebrate love and embark on this enchanting journey together!
People Involved in the Wedding
1. Bride (noun) /braɪd/: A woman who is about to be married or is newly married.
Example: The bride wore a beautiful white gown as she walked down the aisle.
2. Groom (noun) /ɡruːm/: A man who is about to be married or is newly married.
Example: The groom nervously waited at the altar for his bride to arrive.
3. Best man (noun) /bɛst mæn/: The chief male attendant to the groom at a wedding, often a close friend or relative.
Example: The best man prepared a funny and heartfelt speech for the wedding reception.
4. Maid of honor (noun) /meɪd əv ˈɒnər/: The chief female attendant to the bride at a wedding, usually a close friend or sister.
Example: The maid of honor helped the bride with her dress, makeup, and hair on the wedding day.
5. Bridesmaids (noun) /ˈbraɪdzmeɪdz/: Female friends or relatives who support the bride during the wedding ceremony and festivities.
Example: The bridesmaids wore matching dresses and carried bouquets of flowers.
6. Groomsmen (noun) /ˈɡruːmzmən/: Male friends or relatives who support the groom during the wedding ceremony and festivities.
Example: The groomsmen escorted the bridesmaids down the aisle during the processional.
7. Flower girl (noun) /ˈflaʊər ɡɜrl/: A young girl who scatters flower petals down the aisle during a wedding ceremony.
Example: The adorable flower girl carefully dropped petals as she walked down the aisle.
8. Ring bearer (noun) /rɪŋ ˈbɛrər/: A young boy who carries the wedding rings on a pillow or small plate during the wedding ceremony.
Example: The ring bearer proudly carried the wedding rings down the aisle before presenting them to the best man.
9. Officiant (noun) /əˈfɪʃiənt/: The person who leads and officiates a wedding ceremony, such as a priest, minister, rabbi, or judge.
Example: The officiant guided the couple through their vows and the exchange of rings.
10. Wedding planner (noun) /ˈwɛdɪŋ ˈplænər/: A professional who assists with the design, planning, and management of a wedding.
Example: Hiring a wedding planner helped the couple organize their dream wedding with less stress.
11. Parents (noun) /ˈpɛrənts/: The mother and father of the bride or groom, who often play important roles in the wedding.
Example: The parents of the bride and groom welcomed guests and gave their blessings during the wedding ceremony.
12. Guests (noun) /ɡɛsts/: People who attend a wedding ceremony and celebration, usually friends and family of the bride and groom.
Example: The couple invited 150 guests to share in their special day.
13. Photographer (noun) /fəˈtɒɡrəfər/: A person who takes photographs, often hired to capture memories of a wedding.
Example: The photographer took beautiful pictures of the couple and their families during the wedding.
14. Caterer (noun) /ˈkætərər/: A person or company that provides food and beverages for a wedding or event.
Example: The caterer prepared a delicious buffet for the wedding reception.
15. DJ/Musician (noun) /ˈdiːdʒeɪ/ /mjuˈzɪʃən/: A person who plays music or operates sound equipment at a wedding reception or event.
Example: The DJ played the couple’s favorite songs and kept guests dancing all night long.
16. Celebrant (noun) /ˈsɛləbrənt/: An alternative term for an officiant, particularly used in non-religious or personalized wedding ceremonies.
Example: The celebrant worked with the couple to create a unique and meaningful wedding ceremony.
Wedding Attire
1. Wedding dress (noun) /ˈwɛdɪŋ drɛs/: A special gown or dress that a bride wears on her wedding day, traditionally white or ivory in color.
Example: The bride tried on several beautiful wedding dresses before choosing the perfect one.
2. Tuxedo (noun) /tʌkˈsiːdoʊ/: A formal suit for men, usually worn at evening events, including weddings, featuring a black or dark-colored jacket, trousers, and a bow tie.
Example: The groom looked handsome in his perfectly tailored tuxedo.
3. Veil (noun) /veɪl/: A lightweight, often transparent piece of fabric that covers the bride’s head and face during a wedding ceremony.
Example: The bride wore a delicate lace veil that complemented her wedding dress.
4. Tiara (noun) /tiˈɑrə/: A decorative headpiece, often made of metal and adorned with jewels, worn by the bride on her wedding day.
Example: The bride chose a sparkling tiara to complete her wedding ensemble.
5. Bouquet (noun) /buˈkeɪ/: A bunch of flowers, often arranged and held together, carried by the bride and bridesmaids during a wedding.
Example: The bride’s bouquet was a beautiful arrangement of roses and lilies.
6. Boutonnière (noun) /buːtəˈniːr/: A small flower or group of flowers, usually worn on a man’s lapel at a formal event like a wedding.
Example: The groom and groomsmen wore matching boutonnières made of roses.
7. Ring (noun) /rɪŋ/: A circular band of metal, often gold or silver, worn on the finger to symbolize marriage.
Example: The couple exchanged rings during the wedding ceremony as a sign of their commitment.
8. Jewelry (noun) /ˈdʒuːəlri/: Decorative items, such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, usually made of metal and gemstones, worn as accessories during a wedding.
Example: The bride wore her grandmother’s pearl jewelry as her something borrowed.
9. Shoes (noun) /ʃuːz/: Footwear worn by the bride, groom, and wedding party during the ceremony and reception.
Example: The bride wore a pair of elegant, high-heeled shoes that matched her wedding dress.
10. Garter (noun) /ˈɡɑrtər/: A decorative elastic band worn around the thigh by the bride, traditionally removed by the groom and tossed to unmarried male guests at the wedding reception.
Example: The groom playfully removed the bride’s garter and tossed it over his shoulder.
11. Cufflinks (noun) /ˈkʌflɪŋks/: Decorative fasteners used to secure the cuffs of a dress shirt, often worn by the groom and groomsmen during a wedding.
Example: The groom wore his father’s vintage cufflinks as a sentimental touch.
12. Wedding suit (noun) /ˈwɛdɪŋ sut/: A formal suit worn by the groom and groomsmen at a wedding, typically a two- or three-piece suit with matching pants, jacket, and sometimes a vest.
Example: The groomsmen all wore matching wedding suits in a dark shade of blue.
13. Bow tie (noun) /boʊ ˈtaɪ/: A type of necktie, made of a ribbon of fabric tied in a symmetrical knot, often worn with a tuxedo or wedding suit.
Example: The groom chose a velvet bow tie to add a touch of elegance to his wedding attire.
14. Bridal gown (noun) /ˈbraɪdəl ˈɡaʊn/: Another term for a wedding dress, referring to the special attire worn by the bride on her wedding day.
Example: The bridal gown featured intricate lace detailing and a long train.
15. Bridesmaid dress (noun) /ˈbraɪdzmeɪd ˈdrɛs/: A dress worn by the bridesmaids, usually chosen by the bride, often designed to complement the wedding’s color scheme.
Example: The bridesmaids wore lovely pastel-colored bridesmaid dresses that suited each of their individual styles.
Wedding Ceremony and Reception
1. Altar (noun) /ˈɔl·tər/: A table or platform used as the focal point during a wedding ceremony, where the couple stands to exchange vows and rings.
Example: The altar was adorned with beautiful flowers and candles for the wedding ceremony.
2. Aisle (noun) /aɪl/: A passage or walkway between rows of seats, where the bride walks to meet the groom during the wedding ceremony.
Example: The bride walked down the aisle with her father by her side.
3. Vows (noun) /vaʊz/: The promises that a couple makes to each other during a wedding ceremony, expressing their commitment and love.
Example: The couple wrote their own heartfelt vows to recite during the ceremony.
4. Rings exchange (noun) /rɪŋz ɪksˈʧeɪndʒ/: The part of a wedding ceremony when the couple gives each other rings as a symbol of their commitment.
Example: During the rings exchange, the groom placed a diamond band on the bride’s finger.
5. First kiss (noun) /fɜrst kɪs/: The moment when the couple kisses for the first time as a married couple, typically occurring at the end of the wedding ceremony.
Example: The guests cheered as the newlyweds shared their first kiss as husband and wife.
6. Toast (noun) /toʊst/: A short speech given by the wedding party or guests, wishing the newlyweds happiness and success in their marriage.
Example: The best man raised his glass and gave a heartfelt toast to the happy couple.
7. Cake cutting (noun) /keɪk ˈkʌtɪŋ/: A wedding tradition in which the bride and groom cut the first slice of their wedding cake together.
Example: The guests gathered around to watch the couple’s cake cutting ceremony.
8. First dance (noun) /fɜrst dæns/: The initial dance performed by the newlyweds at their wedding reception, often a slow, romantic dance.
Example: The couple chose a classic love song for their first dance as husband and wife.
9. Speeches (noun) /spiːʧɪz/: Formal talks given by the bride, groom, or members of the wedding party, often expressing gratitude and sharing memories.
Example: The father of the bride delivered a heartfelt speech that brought tears to many guests’ eyes.
10. Reception (noun) /rɪˈsɛpʃən/: The celebration or party held after the wedding ceremony, where guests eat, drink, and dance to celebrate the newlyweds.
Example: The couple’s reception was held at a beautiful ballroom overlooking the city.
11. Banquet (noun) /ˈbæŋkwɪt/: A formal dinner or feast held in honor of the newlyweds, often featuring multiple courses and a variety of dishes.
Example: The banquet included a delicious spread of appetizers, main courses, and desserts.
12. Dance floor (noun) /dæns flɔr/: A designated area at a wedding reception where guests can dance and celebrate with the newlyweds.
Example: The dance floor was packed with guests enjoying themselves and celebrating the couple’s special day.
13. Wedding cake (noun) /ˈwɛdɪŋ keɪk/: A large, multi-tiered cake served at a wedding reception, often elaborately decorated and featuring a cake topper.
Example: The beautiful wedding cake had layers of chocolate and vanilla and was adorned with sugar flowers.
14. Champagne toast (noun) /ʃæmˈpeɪn toʊst/: A celebratory moment during the wedding reception when guests raise their glasses filled with champagne to wish the newlyweds well.
Example: The best man led the champagne toast, wishing the couple a lifetime of happiness.
15. Dinner (noun) /ˈdɪnər/: The main meal served at a wedding reception, often consisting of multiple courses and a variety of food options.
Example: Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner that included a choice of salmon or steak.
16. Decorations (noun) /ˌdɛkəˈreɪʃənz/: Items or objects used to beautify the wedding venue, such as flowers, candles, table settings, and other visual elements.
Example: The decorations for the wedding included soft lighting, elegant table settings, and lush floral arrangements.
Wedding Elements and Traditions
1. Invitation (noun) /ˌɪnvɪˈteɪʃən/: A printed or digital card sent to guests, requesting their attendance at a wedding or related event.
Example: The couple sent out beautiful invitations with gold lettering and a floral design.
2. RSVP (noun) /ˌɑr ˌɛs ˌvi ˈpi/: An abbreviation for the French phrase “répondez s’il vous plaît,” meaning “please respond,” used on invitations to request guests to confirm their attendance.
Example: The RSVP date was included on the invitation, so the couple could finalize the guest count.
3. Bachelor/bachelorette party (noun) /ˈbæʧələr/ˈbæʧələˌrɛt ˈpɑrti/: A pre-wedding celebration held separately for the bride and groom, typically involving their close friends and often focused on fun activities.
Example: The groom and his friends went on a weekend trip for his bachelor party, while the bride enjoyed a spa day for her bachelorette party.
4. Rehearsal dinner (noun) /rɪˈhɜrsəl ˈdɪnər/: A meal held before the wedding, usually for close family and the wedding party, to practice the ceremony and make final preparations.
Example: The couple hosted a casual rehearsal dinner at their favorite Italian restaurant the night before the wedding.
5. Bridal shower (noun) /ˈbraɪdəl ˈʃaʊər/: A pre-wedding celebration for the bride, where guests give gifts and celebrate the upcoming wedding.
Example: The bride’s friends and family threw her a surprise bridal shower with a tea party theme.
6. Honeymoon (noun) /ˈhʌnimun/: A vacation taken by a newly married couple after their wedding, to celebrate their marriage and enjoy time together.
Example: The newlyweds went on a romantic honeymoon to a tropical island resort.
7. Engagement ring (noun) /ɪnˈgeɪdʒmənt rɪŋ/: A ring, often featuring a gemstone, given by one person to another when they propose marriage, symbolizing their intention to marry.
Example: The groom proposed with a stunning engagement ring featuring a round diamond.
8. Wedding band (noun) /ˈwɛdɪŋ bænd/: A simple ring, typically made of precious metal, worn by both partners as a symbol of their marriage.
Example: The bride and groom exchanged matching gold wedding bands during the ceremony.
9. Gift registry (noun) /ɡɪft ˈrɛdʒɪstri/: A list of desired items that a couple creates, often at various stores, to guide wedding guests in selecting gifts.
Example: The couple set up a gift registry at their favorite home goods store, making it easy for guests to choose thoughtful presents.
10. Wedding favors (noun) /ˈwɛdɪŋ ˈfeɪvərz/: Small gifts or tokens given by the bride and groom to their guests as a thank-you for attending their wedding.
Example: The couple offered personalized wedding favors for their guests, including small jars of local honey.
11. Something old, new, borrowed, and blue (noun) /ˈsʌmθɪŋ oʊld, nu, ˈbɔrəʊd, ənd blu/: A traditional wedding custom in which the bride incorporates four symbolic items into her wedding attire to bring good luck.
Example: The bride wore her grandmother’s pearls as something old, her new dress as something new, her sister’s veil as something borrowed, and a blue ribbon on her bouquet as something blue.
12. Wedding chapel (noun) /ˈwɛdɪŋ ˈʧæpəl/: A building or room specifically designed for wedding ceremonies, often found in churches, hotels, or dedicated wedding venues.
Example: The couple chose a picturesque wedding chapel with stained glass windows for their ceremony.
13. Marriage certificate (noun) /ˈmærɪdʒ ˈsɜrtɪfɪkət/: An official document, signed by the couple and witnesses, that legally confirms a marriage.
Example: After the ceremony, the bride and groom signed their marriage certificate in front of their closest friends and family.
Congratulations on completing this lesson on English vocabulary for weddings! You now have a collection of words and phrases to help you express your thoughts and participate in conversations about weddings. From the bride’s stunning dress to the exchange of vows and the joyful celebration, your expanded vocabulary will enable you to appreciate and engage in this special occasion. Keep practicing and immerse yourself in the world of weddings, spreading love and happiness along the way. May your journey be filled with beautiful memories and heartfelt moments!
