Definition

Noun: A man who attends and assists the bridegroom at a wedding ceremony. His duties are typically ceremonial and supportive, such as standing with the groom, holding the wedding rings, or giving a speech at the reception.

Examples

• Noun:
  • John asked his brother to be his groomsman.
  • The groomsman helped straighten the groom's tie before the ceremony.
  • Each groomsman wore a matching boutonniere.

Advanced Usage

• "Best man" vs. "groomsman": The "best man" is the chief groomsman, with specific duties like holding the wedding rings and giving the primary toast. A "groomsman" is a general member of the groom's party.
  • While his best man gave the main speech, the other groomsmen also shared short stories.

Variants and Related Words

• Groomsmen (plural noun): The collective term for the group of men serving as the groom's attendants.
  • The groomsmen lined up for a photograph.

Synonyms

• Attendant: A person who assists or serves.
• Bridesman (less common): A male attendant for the bride (a specific, different role).

Related Phrases

• Groom's party / Groom's side: Refers collectively to the groom, best man, and groomsmen.
  • The groom's party arrived at the church together.

Noun

1. a male attendant of the bridegroom at a wedding