significant other

noun

: a person who is important to one's well-being

especially : a spouse or one in a similar relationship

Examples of significant other in a Sentence

Before you make such an important decision, you should talk it over with your significant other. she has threatened to divorce her significant other if he doesn't stop gambling

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

One partner, a passionate environmentalist, may present research, share personal stories and seek affirmation from their significant other, who is a dedicated meat-eater. —

Mark Travers, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024 The spouse or significant other of your ceremony officiant, as well as both parents of ring bearers and flower girls. —

Marissa Miller, Vogue, 5 Dec. 2024 Her parents don't accept her partner, Nick, but she's been amazed to see how the rest of her Amish family show their support and welcome her significant other. —

Zoey Lyttle, People.com, 3 Dec. 2024 When Tommy, a dear friend, died in 2023, Cindy, his significant other, hosted a celebration of his life at a Glastonbury brewery. —

Chris John Amorosino, Hartford Courant, 24 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for significant other

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of significant other was in 1940

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Significant other.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/significant%20other. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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