English Explanatory Dictionary

speak now or forever hold your peace

English dictionary entry

Meanings

phrase
  1. Traditionally spoken during a wedding ceremony to allow guests an opportunity to voice any objections to the union.
  2. Spoken to give one's listeners a last chance for comments or feedback.

Word forms

speak now or forever hold your peace

Etymology

Originates from the 1549 Book of Common Prayer. The original wording is: "Therefore if any man can ſhewe any iuste cauſe why they maie not lawfully be ioyned ſo together: Leat him now ſpeake, or els hereafter for euer hold his peace."

Related words

hold one's peace
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