banns

name

1. plural of Bann

noun

Etymology: An alteration of bans.

1. The announcement of a forthcoming marriage (legally required for a church wedding in England and Wales and read on the three Sundays preceding the marriage).

   “VVhy the banns have been publiſhed, and nobody has forbidden them, 'tis true—but you know either of the parties may change their minds even after they enter the church.”

2. Any public announcement of an upcoming event.

   “The Banes which are reade beefore the beginninge of the playes of Chester, 4 June, 1600.”