ségbl

Ségbl is a fictional term used in speculative fiction and in conlang communities to denote a ceremonial and social concept within a constructed culture. In its conventional use, ségbl refers to a binding pledge enacted during a seasonal festival, and to the object associated with that pledge, usually a braided cord or seal token. The term thus covers both an act and a token that symbolize communal obligations.

Etymology and form: In the imagined language, ség- means "to bind" and -bl is a nominal suffix marking ritual items. The word is typically pronounced with two syllables, [ˈseːɡbl] or [ˈsɛɡbl], with a strong onset on the first syllable.

Cultural role: The ségbl ceremony is described as a rite of passage that reinforces social cohesion. Participants recite a vow, exchange tokens, and perform a binding gesture that is believed to symbolize durable commitments across cycles of seasons. Violations of the ségbl are treated as breaches of social trust rather than legal infractions alone.

Usage and notes: The concept appears in several works of worldbuilding and in glossaries maintained by conlang communities. Variants may differ in ritual details, token design, or pronunciation, but the core idea—binding social obligation through oath and token—remains constant.

See also: conlang, ritual oath, worldbuilding glossary.