spousal

1 of 2

adjective

spou·​sal ˈspau̇-zəl How to pronounce spousal (audio)
-səl
: of, relating to, or involving a spouse
spousal affection
spousal assault
spousal support
spousally adverb

spousal

2 of 2

noun

: nuptials
usually used in plural

Examples of spousal in a Sentence

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.
Adjective
The reality star and mother of three asked for spousal support to be awarded to her, but requested to terminate the court’s ability to award support to Arroyave, 47. Liza Esquibias, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024 Lee was later sentenced to six months in jail on the spousal abuse charge. Emily Maddick, Glamour, 30 Sep. 2024
Noun
The spousal benefit may also offer some flexibility for older filers. Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 9 Aug. 2024 Josh did request spousal support from Christina — though not a specific amount — in his initial divorce petition on July 15. Mackenzie Schmidt, People.com, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for spousal 

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English spousaille, from Anglo-French spousailles, espusailles espousal

First Known Use

Adjective

1904, in the meaning defined above

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spousal was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near spousal

Cite this Entry

“Spousal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spousal. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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