handfast

Definition of handfast

hand´fast`   Pronunciation: hănd´fåst`
n.1.Hold; grasp
2.Custody; power of confining or keeping.
3.A contract; specifically, an espousal.
a.1.Fast by contract; betrothed by joining hands.
v. t.1.To pledge; to bind.
[imp. & p. p. handfasted; p. pr. & vb. n. handfasting.]
2.To betroth by joining hands, in order to permit cohabitation, before the formal celebration of marriage; in some parts of Scotland it was in effect to marry provisionally, permitting cohabitation for a year, after which the marriage could be formalized or dissolved.
a.1.Strong; steadfast.
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