bride

noun

ˈbrīd How to pronounce bride (audio)
Synonyms of bridenext
: a woman just married or about to be married

Examples of bride in a Sentence

the mother of the bride
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Duties of a Bridesmaid The main role of a bridesmaid is to be present throughout the wedding weekend, follow the attire guidelines asked of the wedding party, and be a support to the bride leading up to the big day. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 24 Aug. 2026 This comes of not understanding that the tradition dated from a time when brides and bridegrooms were not expected to have close ties to those of the opposite gender. — Judith Martin, Mercury News, 24 Aug. 2026 Notable guests included actors Josh Bowman, Emily VanCamp, Linsey Godfrey, Emily O’Brien, Mieko Hillman and Jessica Minhas, as well as the bride’s sisters, Rachel McCord and Angel McCord. — Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 24 Aug. 2026 For some brides, cultural superstitions add yet another complicated layer to the nuptial-planning process. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bride

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English brȳd; akin to Old High German brūt bride

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bride was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing bride

Rhymes for bride

See All Rhymes for bride

Browse Nearby Words

bridal wreath
bride
bride's basket
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bride.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bride. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bride

noun
ˈbrīd How to pronounce bride (audio)
: a woman just married or about to be married

More from Merriam-Webster on bride

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for bride

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bride

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