Wifely: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• 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'.

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 woman’s 'wifely' qualities can influence relationship dynamics and societal expectations.

This word's position of #31,917 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 31914 chaperon
• 31915 unrolling
• 31916 munched
• 31917 wifely
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• 31919 tared
• 31920 acrobat
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