wed: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1formal, literary, journalistic; slightly archaic or elevated in simple verb form for 'marry'.
Quick answer
What does “wed” mean?
to marry.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
to marry; to join together in marriage.
To unite closely or to blend harmoniously. Often used metaphorically to describe the merging of ideas, styles, or elements.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The verb 'wed' is used more in UK journalism and formal contexts; 'get married' is overwhelmingly dominant in both. 'Wed' is slightly more prevalent in US headlines and set phrases. 'Wedded' as an adjective ('wedded bliss') is equally formal in both.
Connotations
Connotes a deliberate, formal, or sometimes arranged union. Can feel pompous or old-fashioned if used in casual speech for 'marry'.
Frequency
Low frequency in spoken language for the base verb; high frequency in compounds ('newly-weds', 'wedded') and headlines.
Grammar
How to Use “wed” in a Sentence
[Sb] wed [Sb] (formal)[Sb] is wed to [Sb][Sb] is wedded to [concept/tradition]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “wed” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The couple will wed in a small ceremony in Cornwall.
- He was wed to his first wife for twenty years.
American English
- They wed last summer in a private Las Vegas chapel.
- She is wedded to her principles above all else.
adverb
British English
- (Rarely used; no common examples.)
American English
- (Rarely used; no common examples.)
adjective
British English
- The wedded pair looked very happy.
- He remained wedded to his outdated methods.
American English
- Newly-wed life comes with adjustments.
- The company is oddly wedded to its old software.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Metaphorical: 'The company aims to wed innovative design with sustainable materials.'
Academic
Historical/Literary: 'The treaty effectively wed the interests of the two kingdoms.'
Everyday
Almost exclusively in compounds: 'My neighbours are newly-weds.'
Technical
Rare; possibly in botany/horticulture for grafting.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “wed”
- Using 'wed' casually ('I'm going to wed my girlfriend') sounds unnatural. Using 'wedded' incorrectly as the only past tense ('He wedded her') is less common than 'wed' or 'married'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in meaning, but 'wed' is far more formal, literary, or used in journalism/headlines. 'Marry' and 'get married' are standard for everyday speech.
Both 'wed' and 'wedded' are acceptable, though 'wed' is more common (e.g., 'They wed last year'). 'Married' is the most common and neutral choice.
Yes, commonly in phrases like 'wedded bliss' or metaphorically 'wedded to an idea', meaning strongly attached or devoted.
Yes, when used as a compound noun or adjective before a noun (newly-weds, a newly-wed couple). It may be written as 'newlywed' in some American styles.
to marry.
Wed is usually formal, literary, journalistic; slightly archaic or elevated in simple verb form for 'marry'. in register.
Wed: in British English it is pronounced /wɛd/, and in American English it is pronounced /wɛd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “wedded bliss”
- “wedded to the idea/past”
- “strange bedfellows are politics wed”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
WED rhymes with 'said' – as in 'It is said they will wed.' Think of 'Wednesday', the day some choose to wed.
Conceptual Metaphor
MARRIAGE IS A BOND/UNION (wedded to an idea); SUCCESSFUL COMBINATION IS A MARRIAGE (wedding technology and art).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'wed' used most naturally?