Hand"fast` , a. [G. handfest; hand hand + fest strong. See Fast.]
Strong; steadfast.[R.]
Carlyle.
Hand"fast` , v. t. [imp. & p. p. Handfasted;
p. pr. & vb. n.
Handfasting.]
To pledge; to bind; to betroth by joining hands, in order to permit cohabitation, before the celebration of marriage. [Obs.]
Hand"fast` , a. Fast by contract; betrothed by joining
hands. [Obs.]
Bale.
Hand"fast` (-f&adot;st`), n. 1. Hold; grasp; custody; power of confining or keeping. [Obs.]
Shak.
2. Contract; specifically, espousal. [Obs.]
Hear it pronounced