handfast

Definition

A hold, grasp; custody, power of confining or keeping.

Etymology

From Middle English hondfast, past participle of Middle English hondfesten (“to betroth”), from Old Norse handfesta (“to strike a bargain, pledge”), itself from hönd (“hand”) + festa (“to fasten, fix, affirm”), perhaps from a Proto-Indo-European root *pHst-.

Example Sentences

• "And the remembrancer of her to hold The hand-fast to her lord. I have given him that"