marital

UK: ˈmær.ɪ.təl | US: ˈmer.ə.t̬əl

Definition

  1. adj. relating to marriage or the relationship between spouses

Structure
marit <marriage>al <adjective suffix>
Etymology

marital = marit<marriage> + al<adjective suffix>

  • marit (from Latin maritus, meaning "husband" or "married")
  • al (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, meaning "pertaining to")

Etymology Origin:
The word "marital" traces back to Latin maritalis, derived from maritus (husband). It originally emphasized the husband's role in marriage but later broadened to describe the union itself. The suffix -al standardizes it as an adjective, aligning with similar terms like "parental" or "natal."

Examples

  1. Their marital problems began after years of poor communication.

  2. The counselor specializes in marital therapy.

  3. She enjoys the marital benefits of shared health insurance.

  4. The book discusses marital customs across cultures.

  5. Legal rights vary depending on marital status.