B
Bachelor – an unmarried man. See also Spinster.
Banns – A religious tradition where couples had to announce their intent to marry. Had to take place at least a week or two before the actual ceremony.
Bar Mitzvah – A Jewish celebration in honour of a boy’s coming of age at 13. See also Bat Mitzvah. Literally translates to “Son of the commandment.”
Bat Mitzvah – A Jewish celebration in honour of a girl’s coming of age, usually at 12 or 13, though far less common than the Bar Mitzvah. See also Bar Mitzvah. Literally translates to “Daughter of the commandment.”
BCE – Or BC, meaning Before Common Era or Before Christian Era (or Before Christ). Literally referring to the years before the year 0 in the Julian or Gregorian calendars. See CE and AD.
Beneficiary – A person due an inheritance in a will.
Bequest – A gift or legacy, usually received through a will.
Birth Name – See Given Name.
Brick Wall – That ancestor which you are unable to find more information on.
Brit Milah – Also called the Bris. The Jewish circumcision ceremony for boys.
