House wife Meaning and Definition
House wife
Pronunciation
/ˈhaʊs wɪf/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A woman who manages and maintains a household, often responsible for domestic tasks and childcare.
Examples
- She is a devoted house wife, taking care of her family and home.
- The house wife spent her day cooking and cleaning for her family.
Synonyms
- Homemaker
- Housekeeper
Antonyms
- Working mother
- Independent woman
Additional Information
The role of a house wife has evolved over time, with many women pursuing careers and contributing to the family income. However, the traditional expectation of a house wife remains in many societies. House wives often perform tasks such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, and childcare, while also managing the household budget and maintaining relationships with family and friends.
Some house wives choose to pursue hobbies and interests outside of their domestic duties, while others focus on raising their children and maintaining a comfortable home environment. Regardless of the specific responsibilities, being a house wife requires a strong sense of duty, organization, and adaptability.
Modern house wives often face challenges such as balancing work and family life, managing household debt, and coping with the emotional demands of their role. Despite these challenges, many house wives find fulfillment and satisfaction in their work, taking pride in creating a warm and welcoming home for their loved ones.
Etymology
The word “house wife” has its origins in the Old English words “hūs” (house) and “wīf” (wife). The term has evolved over time to reflect changing societal expectations and roles for women in the home.
Usage Notes
The word “house wife” is often used in informal contexts, such as conversations with friends or family members. When using the term in formal writing or professional settings, it’s common to use more formal language, such as “homemaker” or “household manager.”
When referring to a person’s occupation or profession, it’s essential to use the correct terminology. For example, a woman who works outside the home might be referred to as a “working mother” or “career woman,” while a person who stays at home to care for children or manage the household might be called a “house wife.”
Cultural References
The term “house wife” has been referenced in popular culture, such as in literature, film, and television shows. For example, in the novel “The Stepford Wives” by Ira Levin, the main characters are portrayed as idealized house wives whose lives are taken over by their husbands.
In the TV show “Mad Men,” the character Peggy Olson is a working woman who struggles to balance her career and domestic responsibilities, reflecting the challenges faced by many house wives in the mid-20th century.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “House wife duties” refers to the tasks and responsibilities typically associated with being a house wife, such as cooking, cleaning, and childcare.
- “Homemaker’s delight” is a phrase used to describe a woman who takes pride in creating a warm and welcoming home environment.
- “Behind closed doors” is an idiomatic expression used to describe the private and personal aspects of a house wife’s life, outside of her public persona.
Related Words or Phrases
Words or phrases closely related to “house wife” include:
- Homemaker
- Housekeeper
- Domestic worker
- Household manager
Collocations
Common word combinations with “house wife” include:
- Full-time house wife
- Part-time house wife
- Working mother and house wife
- Homemaker and house wife
Frequency of Use
The term “house wife” is still widely used in everyday language, particularly in informal conversations. However, its frequency of use has decreased in recent years, as more women pursue careers and professional roles outside the home.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings and variations of “house wife” include:
- Housewive
- House wifey
- House wifes
- House wifeys