noun

spouse

SPOWSS/spaʊs/

A person someone is married to.

She passes a cup to her spouse, their wedding bands visible.

A married couple prepare tea together, their wedding bands visible as one passes a cup to the other, affectionate ordinary companionship; simple table only.

Etymology

spouseLatinto bind oneself, promise solemnly

The root means to bind oneself by a solemn promise. Its participle meant “betrothed” and named a bridegroom or bride, connecting spouse with the pledge underlying marriage.

In context

silver fox59:07

never denying your spouse, particularly your husband sex,

biblical submission & purity culture (a study of the religious influencer)

More examples

Both spouses attended.
He introduced his spouse.
The invitation included spouses.

Forms

spouse · spouses

Similar words

partner: May describe an unmarried relationship or other collaboration.
husband: A male spouse specifically.