Dowered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dowered
[ˈdaʊərd ]
Definition
financial status
Dowered refers to the legal provision for a widow, usually granting her a portion of her deceased husband's estate. This term is often associated with the dower rights that a wife has over her husband's property, which ensures her financial security after his death.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She was dowered with a substantial inheritance.
- In medieval times, women were often dowered to secure their future.
- The estate's dowered properties provided comfort for the widow.
- He ensured his wife was dowered according to their marriage contract.
Translations
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Origin of 'dowered'
The word 'dowered' originates from the Middle English term 'dowere', which was derived from the Old French 'dower', meaning 'gift or endowment'. This, in turn, came from the Latin 'dotarium', related to 'dos', meaning 'dowry'. Historically, dowry was a transfer of parental property, wealth, or goods at the marriage of a daughter. Legal rights surrounding dower evolved over centuries, ensuring that widows received a share of their husband's estate. The concept of dower has deep roots in various cultures, reflecting broader practices of marriage and property.