In ancient times, the Teutonic people began the practice of the honeymoon. Teutonic weddings were only held under the full moon. After the wedding, the bride and groom would drink honey wine for one full moon cycle (thirty days).

This "moon" (i.e., "month") became known as the "honey moon."

While the name survived, the purpose of the honeymoon changed. After the wedding, newlyweds would leave their family and friends to go and do what newlyweds are supposed to do.

Today that purpose survives, only now a vacation is incorporated, usually to a romantic get-away locale.