spouse

Definition

A person in a marriage or marital relationship.

Etymology

From Middle English spous, spouse, from Anglo-Norman espus m, espuse f and Old French espos m, espose f and by aphesis from Latin spōnsus m (“bridegroom”), spōnsa f (“bride”), from spondeō (“I vow, pledge”), from Proto-Indo-European *spend-. Displaced native Old English ġemaca. Related to espouse and sponsor.

Example Sentences

• "People should treat their spouses with respect."
• "At last such grace I found, and meanes I wrought, / That I that Ladie to my spouse had wonne"

Related Words