Wife Meaning and Definition
Wife
Pronunciation
/waɪf/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A married female: a woman who is married to a man and is generally considered to be a part of the family unit, having a legal, social, and emotional bond with her husband and children.
Examples
- She’s a devoted wife and mother.
- The couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
Synonyms
- Spouse
- Partner
Antonyms
- Bachelorette
- Spinster
Etymology
The word “wife” is derived from Old English “wīf”, which is also the source of the Modern English word “woman”.
Additional Information
The role of a wife can vary greatly depending on cultural and societal norms. Historically, wives were often expected to manage the household and care for their children, while their husbands worked outside the home. Today, many men and women are sharing more equally in household and child-rearing duties, and the concept of traditional roles is evolving. A wife can also be a source of support, comfort, and companionship for her husband and family.
Usage Notes
The word “wife” can be used in a variety of contexts, including formal and informal writing, as well as in conversation. It’s generally considered impolite to use the term “wife” to refer to someone’s partner if you’re not familiar with their relationship status or if it’s not explicitly stated.
Cultural References
The term “wife” has been referenced in countless works of literature, film, and art, often used to explore themes of marriage, family, and relationships. Some notable examples include Dickens’ “Oliver Twist”, Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea”, and the iconic sitcom “I Love Lucy”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
‘Racing to be the husband’s wife’, ‘Wife material’, ‘Woman of his dreams’, ‘Soulmate’
Related Words or Phrases
- Spouse
- Partner
- Girlfriend
- Boyfriend
Collocations
- Wife and husband
- Wife and child
- Wife and family
Frequency of Use
The word “wife” is a commonly used term, particularly in everyday conversation and formal writing, and can be found in a wide range of registers, from casual to formal.
Common Misspellings
Wife, Wifee, Wiefe, Wyfe