divorced
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /dɪˈvɔːrst/
KK: /dɪˈvɔrst/
adjective
Definition
No longer married due to a legal separation.
Example
After they divorced, they both moved on with their lives.
Conversation
Did you hear that Sarah is now officially divorced?
Yeah, I heard about that. It's been a tough time for her.
I can't believe they ended up getting divorced after so many years together.
I know, it's sad, but sometimes it's for the best.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
separated
dissolved
split
Antonyms
married
united
together
verb
Definition
To legally end a marriage.
Example
After many years of unhappiness, they decided to get divorced.
Tense Forms
Past: divorced
Past Participle: divorced
Conversation
Did you hear that Sarah and Tom divorced last month?
Yeah, I heard about that; it's really sad.
I know, they seemed so happy together.
Root Explanation
Divorced → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "vincere" (meaning to conquer or overcome). The word originally described the act of overcoming or separating from a marital bond, hence the meaning of being apart from a spouse.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'apart' ('dis-') from someone you once 'conquered' or joined with ('vincere') in marriage — that's why divorced means to be separated from a spouse.
Visually Confused Words
undivorced
redivorce
ivoried