Wedlock, illegitimate, bastard: the words for children of unmarried parents
In short
'Born out of wedlock' means born to parents who are not married to each other. 'Wedlock' comes from Old English wedlac, a pledge or marriage vow, and 'out of wedlock' is recorded around 1400. 'Illegitimate' dates from the 1530s, and 'bastard' from the early 13th century. The Family Law Reform Act 1987 removed most legal distinctions in England and Wales.
What the full article will cover
- What does 'born out of wedlock' mean?
- Where does the word 'wedlock' come from?
- How did 'illegitimate' and 'bastard' enter English?
- When did 'bastard' become a general insult?
- Why did the law stop distinguishing between children?
- Which words are used today?
Frequently asked questions
- Is 'illegitimate' still used in UK law?
- Why was William the Conqueror called 'the Bastard'?
- What does 'natural child' mean?
- What share of UK births are outside marriage?
Sources
- etymonline.com — https://www.etymonline.com/word/wedlock
- etymonline.com — https://www.etymonline.com/word/illegitimate
- etymonline.com — https://www.etymonline.com/word/bastard
- legislation.gov.uk — https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1987/42/section/1
General information, not legal or religious advice.