ˈwedˌläk noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English wedlac, wedlok, from Old English wedlāc, from wedd pledge + -lāc, suffix denoting activity, probably from lāc warlike activity, play — more at wed , lake (amusement)
1. obsolete : the marriage bond or contract
2.
a. : the state of being married : marriage , matrimony
where love cannot be, there can be left of wedlock nothing but the empty husk — John Milton
b. archaic : a marital union : a wedded life
3. obsolete : wife
•
- out of wedlock