marriage broker Meaning

Marriage Broker

Definition: A marriage broker, also known as a marriage agency or matchmaking service, refers to an individual or organization that assists people in finding spouses or partners, often for the purpose of marriage. The service may involve matching individuals based on various criteria, such as background, interests, or values, to facilitate a romantic relationship that may lead to marriage.

Usage: The term is often used in the context of cultural practices where arranged marriages are common, or in modern contexts where individuals seek help in dating and marital arrangements. Marriage brokers may operate through personal meetings, online platforms, or social events.

• Example sentence: “After several unsuccessful dates, she decided to enlist the help of a marriage broker to find a more serious partner.”

Etymology: The term “marriage broker” is derived from the word “marriage,” which originates from the Old French mariage (originating from marier meaning “to marry”) and the word “broker,” which comes from the Middle English brokier, meaning an intermediary or agent in a business transaction. The combination reflects the role of a broker in facilitating partnerships that lead to marriage.

Pronunciation: /ˈmɛrɪdʒ ˈbroʊ.kər/

Synonyms:

• Matchmaker
• Marriage agency
• Matchmaking service
• Relationship facilitator

Antonyms:

• Individual matcher (in the context of self-initiated dating)
• Single (as in, an unmarried person)
• Divorce (in the context of the end of a marital partnership)

Overall, a marriage broker plays a vital role in contemporary and traditional societies by helping individuals navigate the complexities of finding a compatible partner for marriage.