Pronunciation

/ˈhʌzbənd/

Definitions

• Noun: A married man considered in relation to his wife. For example: “She introduced her husband to her colleagues.”
• Verb (obsolete): To manage or direct; to guide or govern with prudence and economy. This usage is not common today.

Noun (Definitions)

1. Marital relationship: The male partner in a marriage. “She has been married to her husband for 20 years.”
2. Head of household: In historical or traditional contexts, the husband often refers to the head of a family or household who provides for and protects his family. “The husband’s role was to work and maintain the family’s welfare.”
3. Legal term: As a legal status, being someone’s husband implies certain rights and responsibilities under the law.

Phrases

• “Husband and wife”: Refers collectively to a married couple. “They have been husband and wife for over three decades.”
• “To take [someone] for [one’s] husband/wife”: To marry someone. “She decided to take him for her husband.”
• “Husbandry”: Although related in origin, this term refers to the careful management of resources, particularly agriculture or animal care.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “After their honeymoon, they settled down into their new life as husband and wife.”
• Verb (obsolete): “In medieval times, it was expected that a lord would husband his lands and resources wisely.”

Synonyms

• Spouse
• Partner
• Mate
• Consort
• Beau (informal)
• Significant other (modern, informal)