banns

Definition

The announcement of a forthcoming marriage (legally required for a church wedding in England and Wales and read on the three Sundays preceding the marriage).

Etymology

An alteration of bans.

Example Sentences

• "VVhy the banns have been publiſhed, and nobody has forbidden them, 'tis true—but you know either of the parties may change their minds even after they enter the church."
• "The Banes which are reade beefore the beginninge of the playes of Chester, 4 June, 1600."