Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

shotgun-wedding

noun
/ˈʃɒt.ɡʌn ˈwɛd.ɪŋ/
Definition
A wedding that is hastily arranged, often because the bride is pregnant.
Examples
  • After they found out about the pregnancy, they decided on a shotgun wedding.
  • The family was a bit shocked when they announced their shotgun wedding.
Meaning
The term implies that the marriage is prompted by an unexpected pregnancy, pushing the couple to get married quickly.
Synonyms
  • forced marriage
  • hasty marriage
  • premarital wedding