Wifely Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
wifely
[หwฤซflฤ ]
Definition
spousal attributes
The term 'wifely' refers to qualities or characteristics typically associated with a wife. It encompasses behaviors such as nurturing, supportive, and caring that are often expected in a marital relationship. The use of 'wifely' can vary culturally and contextually, reflecting traditional gender roles or more modern interpretations. This word emphasizes the relational aspect of being a wife, highlighting the responsibilities and roles often attributed to this position.
Synonyms
domestic, marital, partnerly, spousal.
Examples of usage
- She has always shown wifely devotion to her family.
- In his eyes, her wifely duties were never in question.
- She approached her job with a wifely sense of care and dedication.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, the term highlights traditional roles expected of a wife, including nurturing and homemaking.
- The 1950s idealization of wifely roles in Western societies emphasized domesticity and caregiving.
Literature
- Certain literary works depict the 'wifely' archetype as embodying loyalty and support, often highlighting the emotional backbone of families.
- Classic novels sometimes juxtapose 'wifely' duties with personal ambition, creating conflict for female characters.
Societal Perspectives
- Modern interpretations of 'wifely' duties challenge traditional gender roles, promoting equality and shared responsibilities.
- In contemporary discussions, 'wifely' qualities might include emotional intelligence and partnership, rather than just household tasks.
Psychology
- Studies reveal that socially constructed 'wifely' roles can impact mental health, emphasizing the importance of personal fulfillment.
- The perception of a womanโs 'wifely' qualities can influence relationship dynamics and societal expectations.
Origin of 'wifely'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the word 'wife', which comes from the Old English 'wif', meaning 'woman' or 'female'.
- The suffix '-ly' indicates a characteristic, so 'wifely' literally means 'in the manner of a wife'.
The word 'wifely' originates from the Old English term 'wif', which means 'woman' or 'wife'. Historically, the concept of a 'wife' has roots in various cultural practices surrounding marriage, where a wife was seen as the female partner in a legally recognized union. With time, the language used to describe the roles of wives evolved. The suffix '-ly' is a common addition in English to form adjectives that describe a characteristic of a noun, in this case, relating to 'wife'. As societal norms shifted and the roles of women changed, 'wifely' began to encapsulate not just the traditional duties expected of wives but also the emotional and supportive attributes tied to partnership. In modern times, while still tied to its historical context, 'wifely' can also reflect more egalitarian views within marriages, where both partners share responsibilities and support each other.