ex-wife
UK: ˌeks ˈwaɪf | US: ˌeks ˈwaɪf
n. a woman to whom one was formerly married
The word "ex-wife" combines the Latin prefix "ex-" (meaning "out of" or "former") with the Old English noun "wīf" (meaning "woman" or "spouse"). "Ex-" was adopted into English through Latin influence, often denoting separation or cessation (e.g., "exit," "expel"). "Wife" evolved from Proto-Germanic *wībam, originally meaning "woman" but later narrowing to "married woman." The compound "ex-wife" emerged in Modern English to specify a former marital relationship, reflecting societal norms around divorce.
He remains on good terms with his ex-wife despite their divorce.
She invited her ex-wife to their daughter's graduation.
Financial disputes with his ex-wife prolonged the legal process.
Her ex-wife moved to another city after their separation.
They co-parent their children amicably with his ex-wife.