Translation guide
The maid of honor is the chief bridesmaid at a wedding, typically a close friend or relative of the bride. In Japan, Western-style weddings often include this role, but the terminology and customs differ from traditional Japanese weddings.
The primary female attendant to the bride, responsible for assisting her and organizing pre-wedding events.
Direct loanword from English, commonly used in the context of Western-style weddings in Japan. Often written in katakana.
She served as the maid of honor at her best friend's wedding.
Descriptive phrase meaning 'bride's attendant.' Used when explaining the role rather than as a title.
Traditional Japanese term for a wedding attendant, but more commonly used for a female assistant in a Shinto ceremony. Not specific to 'maid of honor' and may sound old-fashioned.
In Japan, the concept of a maid of honor is primarily associated with Western-style weddings, which are popular but not traditional. In a traditional Shinto wedding, there is no exact equivalent; instead, a 'kaizoenin' (介添人) assists the bride, but this role is more about ceremonial assistance than the personal, supportive role of a maid of honor.
Do not use '名誉のメイド' (meiyo no meido) as a literal translation; it is not used and would be confusing. Stick to the loanword or descriptive phrases.
As the bride's attendant, I was asked to give a speech.
In a Shinto ceremony, the bride's attendant plays an important role.