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Widowhood - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Widowhood is the state or period of being a widow or widower, following the death of one's spouse. It often involves emotional, social, and financial adjustments.

widowhood

/ˈwɪdoʊhʊd/ /ˈwɪdəʊhʊd/

Definition:

The state or period of being a widow or widower after a spouse's death.

Synonyms:

bereavement, loss, mourning, solitude

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

marriage, union

Common Collocations:

grief in widowhood, transition to widowhood, coping with widowhood, financial challenges in widowhood

Derivatives:

widowed, widower, widow

Usage Tips:

Use "widowhood" to describe the condition or time following a spouse's death; avoid using it for other separations like divorce.

Common Phrases:

the trials of widowhood, early widowhood, facing widowhood alone

Etymology:

From Old English "widewe" (widow) + "-hood" (state or condition), meaning the state of being a widow.

Examples:

  • 1. She struggled with loneliness during her widowhood.
  • 2. His sudden widowhood left him heartbroken and lost.
  • 3. Financial planning is crucial for those entering widowhood.
  • 4. Support groups help many cope with the pain of widowhood.

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