THIRD WIFE Meaning and
Definition
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A third wife refers to the woman who is legally married to a man, following two previous marriages. The term "third wife" is primarily used to classify and identify the specific position and order of a woman within a polygynous marriage or in some cultural practices where multiple marriages are allowed or recognized.
In various societies or religious traditions, such as certain African, Middle Eastern, or historical cultures, polygyny is practiced, permitting men to marry more than one woman simultaneously. In these contexts, a third wife is the wife who comes after the first and second wives in chronological order.
The role and responsibilities of a third wife may vary depending on the specific cultural practices or legal considerations applicable to the marriage. She typically holds the same rights and privileges as previous wives, which may include financial support, joint or separate living arrangements, and potential rights to inheritance. The dynamics of the relationship amongst the multiple wives and the husband can also differ, often influenced by societal norms or the interactions within the marriage itself.
Despite the term being commonly used within polygynous contexts, it is important to note that the concept of a third wife does not exist in monogamous marriages, where individuals typically commit to a single marital partner at a time.
Common Misspellings for THIRD WIFE
- rhird wife
- fhird wife
- ghird wife
- yhird wife
- 6hird wife
- 5hird wife
- tgird wife
- tbird wife
- tnird wife
- tjird wife
- tuird wife
- tyird wife
- thurd wife
- thjrd wife
- thkrd wife
- thord wife
- th9rd wife
- th8rd wife
- thied wife
- thidd wife
Etymology of THIRD WIFE
The etymology of the term "third wife" is relatively straightforward. It is a compound term formed by combining the ordinal number "third" with the noun "wife".
The word "third" derives from the Old English word "þridda", which is believed to have roots in the Germanic language family. The word has remained relatively unchanged over the centuries, retaining its original meaning of "next after the second in order or rank".
The word "wife" comes from the Old English word "wīf", which referred to a female human being. Its origins can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "wībą", meaning "woman". The term has evolved and expanded in meaning over time, specifically referring to a married woman or a female spouse.
