Definition

A legal right that a husband has to use and benefit from his deceased wife's property if they had children together who can inherit it.

Example

After his wife's passing, he claimed curtesy over her estate since they had two children.

Conversation

I was reading about some old legal terms, and I came across curtesy.

Oh really? What does it mean?

It's about a husband's rights to his wife’s property after she dies, especially if they had kids.

That sounds complicated, but I guess it makes sense in some cases.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Curtesy originates from Old French 'curteisie' (meaning courtesy or politeness), which is derived from 'curteis' (meaning courteous). The term refers to the respectful and polite behavior expected in social interactions, particularly in relation to the rights of a husband over his deceased wife's property.

Memory Tip

Think of 'courteous' behavior when remembering that 'curtesy' refers to the polite and respectful actions expected in social situations.

Visually Confused Words