Cohabitate: meaning, definitions and examples
🏠
cohabitate
[ koʊˈhæbəˌteɪt ]
living together
To cohabitate means to live together and share a home, usually in a romantic relationship or partnership. It often implies an arrangement where two individuals, typically not married, choose to share both their space and daily life. This situation can occur with or without legal recognition, and it is a common practice in many cultures.
Synonyms
live together, share a residence.
Examples of usage
- They decided to cohabitate after dating for two years.
- Cohabitating can be a test for relationships before marriage.
- Many young couples choose to cohabitate instead of getting married.
Etymology
The term 'cohabitate' has its roots in the Latin word 'cohabitare,' which is a combination of 'co-' meaning 'together' and 'habitare' meaning 'to dwell or live.' The use of the term in English began in the late 19th century, although the concept of living together without marriage existed long before then. Originally, the word carried a more neutral connotation without the legal implications that some associate with it today. Over the decades, the meanings and societal views surrounding cohabitation have evolved, particularly as cultural attitudes towards marriage and partnership have changed, making cohabitation a more common and accepted practice in many societies.