epithalamion

English

Alternative forms

• epithalamium

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ἐπιθαλάμιον (epithalámion, “bridal song”), neuter form of ἐπιθαλάμιος (epithalámios), from ἐπί (epí, “upon”) + θάλαμος (thálamos, “inner chamber, wedding chamber”).

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ɛpɪθəˈleɪmɪən/

Noun

epithalamion (plural epithalamions)

1. A song or poem celebrating a marriage.
   • 1985, Anthony Burgess, Kingdom of the Wicked:

     ‘What is your view of a text we have never considered in class, I mean the Song that is Solomon’s?’ ‘A well-made epithalamion. Somewhat vulgar.’