Definition of "handfast" in English

noun

1. (obsolete) A hold, grasp; custody, power of confining or keeping.

2. (obsolete) A contract, agreement, covenant; specifically betrothal, espousal.

verb

1. (transitive) To pledge; to bind.

2. (transitive, Scotland, archaic or historical except Wicca) To betroth by joining hands, in order to allow for cohabitation before the celebration of marriage; to marry provisionally.

adjective

1. (obsolete) Fast by contract; betrothed by joining hands.

adjective

1. (rare) Strong; steadfast.