betrothal, I would think....but that's practically archaic now. Engaged, perhaps?
I think 'dare parola' means, there is an ageement that the realtionship will lead to marriage. But a native Italian woudl know better.
Hello, and thank you--I know "dare parola" has something to do with the families meeting and the engaged couple signing a document that expresses their intent to marry. I wonder if it is a premarriage ceremony, or a family celebration-type event? I have no idea. I wonder if we have this in the English/Anglophone tradition.
I think to become engaged is the most frequently used equivalent. Another beautiful - and quite archaic I think - is to pledge oneself (consider the text of Lady Jane by Rolling Stones - I pledge myself to Lady Jane) but this word is not specifically used for romantic relationships.