shadchan

noun

shad·​chan

variants or schatchen or shadchen

ˈshätḵən,

-ädḵ-

plural shadchonim

-ˈḵȯnə̇m,

-nēm

or shadchans or schatchens or shadchens

: a Jewish marriage broker or matchmaker

Word History

Etymology

Yiddish & Middle Hebrew; Yiddish shadkhn, from Middle Hebrew shadhkhān, from Late Hebrew shiddēkh to arrange a marriage

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now