1. in ancient Greece, friends who accompanied a bridegroom when he went to fetch his bride
Usage: historical; ancient Greek custom
2. supporters or advocates who assist someone in a formal ceremony or academic defense
Usage: formal; academic contexts

Examples

• The paranymphs helped the groom prepare for the wedding ceremony in ancient Athens.
• Two paranymphs accompanied the bridegroom to collect his bride from her father’s house.
• In some European universities, doctoral candidates choose paranymphs to support them during their defense.
• The paranymphs stood beside the candidate throughout the academic ceremony.
• Ancient Greek wedding customs included the role of paranymphs as ceremonial companions.
• The tradition of paranymphs has evolved from ancient Greek marriage rituals to modern academic ceremonies.