spousal
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈspaʊsəl/
KK: /ˈspau̇-səl/
adjective
Definition
Connected to a husband or wife, or to marriage in general.
Example
They attended a spousal support group to help each other through tough times.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new spousal benefits at work?
Yeah, I heard they're offering some great perks for married couples.
I think it's nice that they recognize spousal relationships like that.
Absolutely! It really shows they value family.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
marital
nuptial
conjugal
Antonyms
single
divorced
unmarried
noun
Definition
The state of being married or related to marriage, often used to describe things that pertain to a husband or wife.
Example
The couple attended a spousal support group to help them through their challenges.
Conversation
Did you hear about Sarah's spousal celebration last weekend?
Yeah, I saw some pictures online; it looked amazing!
I loved how they incorporated personal touches into the spousal events.
Root Explanation
Spousal → It is formed from "spouse" (from Old French *espousé*, meaning a person married) and the suffix "-al" (meaning relating to). The word "spousal" refers to something that is related to or characteristic of a spouse or marriage.
Memory Tip
Think of 'spouse' as someone you are married to, and the '-al' means relating to. So, spousal means relating to a spouse.
Visually Confused Words
espousal
sponsal
supposal
disposal