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wedlock

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wedlock

Main Entry:: wed·lock
Pronunciation:: \ˈwed-ˌläk\
Function:: noun
Etymology:: Middle English wedlok, from Old English wedlāc marriage bond, from wedd pledge + -lāc, suffix denoting activity
Date:: 13th century

: the state of being married : marriage , matrimony

— out of wedlock

: with the natural parents not legally married to each other

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