<P> The Oxford English Dictionary offers no etymology, but gives examples dating back to the 16th century . The Merriam - Webster dictionary reports the etymology as from "the idea that the first month of marriage is the sweetest ." (1546) </P> <P> In ancient times honeymoon referred to the time of year when bee honey was ripe and cured to be harvested from hives or from the wild which made it the sweetest time of the year . This was usually around the Summer solstice by end June . </P> <P> A honeymoon can also be the first, "sweetest" moments a newly - wed couple spend together, or the first holiday they spend together to celebrate their marriage . </P> <P> "The first month after marriage, when there is nothing but tenderness and pleasure" (Samuel Johnson); originally having no reference to the period of a month, but comparing the mutual affection of newly married persons to the changing moon which is no sooner full than it begins to wane; now, usually, the holiday spent together by a newly married couple, before settling down at home . </P>

Where did the idea of a honeymoon come from