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adjective

spousal

SPOW-zuhl

Spousal (adjective) means relating to marriage or to a husband or wife. Example: “The company extended spousal health benefits to same-sex partners.”

adjective
1
Relating to marriage or to a husband or wife.
"The company extended spousal health benefits to same-sex partners."
"She receives spousal support after the divorce."

How to use spousal

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHaving to do with a spouse or with marriage.

Common pairings
spousal support spousal benefits spousal abuse

Word forms

more spousal comparative, spousals plural, most spousal superlative

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The company extended _____ health benefits to same-sex partners.

Etymology

From spouse plus the adjective suffix "-al", ultimately tracing back through Old French to Latin.

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for spousal

See all rhymes for spousal →

Frequently asked questions

What does “spousal” mean?

The word “spousal” means relating to marriage or to a husband or wife. In plain terms, having to do with a spouse or with marriage.

How do you pronounce “spousal”?

“Spousal” is pronounced SPOW-zuhl (/ˈspaʊzəl/ in IPA).

How do you use “spousal” in a sentence?

Here is “spousal” used in a sentence: “The company extended spousal health benefits to same-sex partners.”

What part of speech is “spousal”?

“Spousal” is an adjective.

Where does the word “spousal” come from?

The word “spousal” comes from Latin. From spouse plus the adjective suffix "-al", ultimately tracing back through Old French to Latin.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial