esküv

Esküv, often written esküvő in standard Hungarian, is the term used to refer to a wedding—the ceremony during which two people enter into a marriage, typically by exchanging vows and forming a legal bond. The standard spelling is esküvő; esküv may appear as a shortened or informal variant in casual writing or digital media.

Etymology and sense: The word derives from eskü (an oath) and esküvés (the act of swearing an oath). The ceremony centers on vows and the legal recognition of marriage, though the form varies by tradition.

Ceremonies and settings: In Hungary, marriages can be contracted civilly at the registry office or through a religious ceremony in a church or other place of worship. Civil weddings are legally binding and are often followed by a reception. Religious ceremonies vary by denomination and may be followed by secular celebrations.

Rituals and elements: Common elements include the exchange of rings, signing of the marriage document, and toasts. A wedding reception, commonly called lagzi in colloquial Hungarian, follows the ceremony and can include dancing, music, and traditional and modern rituals. Practices vary by region, religion, and personal preference.