surviving spouse
A 'surviving spouse' refers to the partner who outlives their married partner, often acquiring certain legal rights and benefits related to the deceased partner's estate.
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Definition
C1Law
(legal)The partner who outlives their spouse, thereby obtaining legal rights to the deceased spouse's property.
Example
- As the surviving spouse, she inherited the family home and other assets.
C1Taxation
(US)An unmarried taxpayer whose spouse has been deceased for less than two taxable years and who provides a home for one or more dependents of the deceased.
Example
- He filed his taxes as a surviving spouse, allowing him certain benefits.
B2General
(general)The husband or wife who remains alive after the death of their partner.
Example
- The surviving spouse often faces significant emotional and financial challenges.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "surviving spouse":