Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Banns \Banns\, n. pl. [See {Ban}.]
   Notice of a proposed marriage, proclaimed in a church, or
   other place prescribed by law, in order that any person may
   object, if he knows of just cause why the marriage should not
   take place.

Source : WordNet®

banns
     n : a public announcement of a proposed marriage