""Shidduch" means tranquility... Do you feel that way?

One of the most common words used in Orthodox circles regarding dating is “shidduch.” This word is used in the Talmud, but its etymology is not explained. The Ran (Rabbeinu Nissim, 1320–1376) in his commentary to Maseches Shabbos (5b in the dapei haRif) explains that the word “shidduch” means “quiet” and “tranquility.” The Ran explains that a couple can discover a special feeling of peace and harmony together.

Perhaps one can derive other lessons from the Ran’s explanation, as well. How does a person know when s/he is ready to get engaged? Many people say to themselves “I know that head over heels is only a Hollywood fantasy… but I am still waiting until I feel really excited to get engaged…” How can the Ran’s definition of the word shidduch shed light on this?