Shadchen

Shadchen

ˈshätḵən

Noun

  • (Jewish) Marriage broker, matchmaker.

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Example Sentences

“The shadchen hosts a party every spring for all of the single people in her neighborhood.” 

“My mother accused me of being a shadchen, but I just want to help my cousin find a good match.” 

“I don’t want to be a shadchen, but I think you should meet my new coworker.”

Word Origin

Yiddish, late 19th century

Why this word?

In the Jewish tradition, a shadchen is a matchmaker. A marriage broker can be a profession, but anyone can serve as an unofficial shadchen. The word “shadchen” is Yiddish, but “shadchanit” (of the same meaning) is also found in Hebrew. Both words come from an Aramaic root that has a meaning of settling down, as in a marriage.

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