speak now or forever hold your peace

From Wiktionary, the free dictionary
Jump to navigation Jump to search

English

[edit]

Etymology

[edit]

Originates from the 1549 Book of Common Prayer. The original wording is: "Therefore if any man can ſhewe any iuste cauſe why they maie not lawfully be ioyned ſo together: Leat him now ſpeake, or els hereafter for euer hold his peace."

Phrase

[edit]

speak now or forever hold your peace

  1. Traditionally spoken during a wedding ceremony to allow guests an opportunity to voice any objections to the union.
  2. (by extension, humorous) Spoken to give one's listeners a last chance for comments or feedback.

See also

[edit]