Paranymph

Lore & Background

In ancient Greek weddings, paranymphs attended both the bride and bridegroom. The role later generalized to include attendants of doctoral students, best men, and bridesmaids. An obscure use of the word is as a spokesman for the bride or bridegroom, such as Cyrano de Bergerac towards Roxanne. The word may also refer to a thought revealed only by a slip of the tongue, such as a Freudian slip, or a condition where such slippage is endemic. Today, a paranymph is the name of a ceremonial hall in a university or college.

Reader's Guide

In the Netherlands, doctoral candidates may have two paranymphs (paranimfen) present at the doctoral thesis defence. This ritual originates from the ancient concept where obtaining a doctorate was seen as a de facto marriage to the university. The paranymphs would also act as a backup for the doctoral candidate to ask for advice when answering questions, or even take over answering the questions. Today the role is symbolic and seen as a position of honour similar to a best man or woman at a wedding. A paranymph nowadays is therefore not required to have any knowledge of the subject matter. The term's evolution from ancient Greek wedding attendants to modern academic and wedding contexts highlights its enduring symbolic value as a supportive figure in significant life ceremonies.

Did You Know?

• In ancient Greek weddings, paranymphs attended both the bride and bridegroom.
• The word can refer to a thought revealed only by a slip of the tongue, such as a Freudian slip.
• In the Netherlands, doctoral candidates may have two paranymphs present at the doctoral thesis defence.
• Today, a paranymph is the name of a ceremonial hall in a university or college.