1.
exchange of betrothal gifts; formal engagement ceremony
A traditional Japanese ceremony in which the families of the bride and groom exchange gifts to formalize their engagement. The gifts typically include symbolic items such as dried bonito, seaweed, and money.
結納を交わす。
To exchange betrothal gifts.
来月、両家の顔合わせと結納を行う。
Next month, the two families will meet and hold the betrothal ceremony.
最近は結納をしないカップルも増えている。
Recently, more couples are skipping the traditional betrothal ceremony.
A traditional Japanese engagement custom that is becoming less common in modern times. Common collocations: 結納を交わす (to exchange betrothal gifts), 結納を行う (to hold the betrothal ceremony), 結納金 (betrothal money), 結納品 (betrothal gifts). The ceremony involves 結納品 — symbolic items that represent wishes for prosperity and happiness. Many modern couples opt for a simpler 顔合わせ食事会 (meet-and-greet dinner) instead.