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handfast

[ hand-fast, -fahst ]

noun

  1. Archaic. a covenant or contract, especially a betrothal, usually completed by a handclasp.

handfast

/ ˈhændˌfɑːst /

noun

  1. an agreement, esp of marriage, confirmed by a handshake
  2. a firm grip

verb

  1. to betroth or marry (two persons or another person) by joining the hands
  2. to grip with the hand

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Word History and Origins

Origin of handfast1

1150–1200; Middle English (past participle), earlier handfest < Scandinavian; compare Old Norse handfestr, past participle of handfesta to betroth with a joining of hands, equivalent to hand hand + festa to betroth, literally, make fast, fasten

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Example Sentences

The issue of “handfast” marriages in Scotland were eligible to be chiefs, and even sometimes claimed under feudal law.

"A Candidatus Theoligiae, your Majesty," answered a handfast threadbare youth one day, when questioned in this manner.

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hand-eye coordinationhandfasting

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