| 释义 |
Definition of levirate in English: leviratenoun ˈliːvɪrətˈlɛvɪrət usually the levirateA custom of the ancient Hebrews and some other peoples by which a man may be obliged to marry his brother's widow. as modifier levirate marriages Example sentencesExamples - The institution of the levirate marriage made it possible that her fertility could build up the ‘house’ of her husband's family, while the birth of a child would provide the bond which would give her a secure place within the household.
- The firstborn child of this levirate marriage is considered the deceased's child.
- Clearly for her, the institution of the levirate was of no help, since she would not be able to bear a son for her dead husband's household.
- Such societies may also practice the levirate (widows marrying brothers or cousins of their deceased spouse).
Origin Early 18th century: from Latin levir 'brother-in-law' + -ate1. Definition of levirate in US English: leviratenoun usually the levirateA custom of the ancient Hebrews and other peoples by which a man may be obliged to marry his brother's widow. as modifier levirate marriages Example sentencesExamples - The institution of the levirate marriage made it possible that her fertility could build up the ‘house’ of her husband's family, while the birth of a child would provide the bond which would give her a secure place within the household.
- Such societies may also practice the levirate (widows marrying brothers or cousins of their deceased spouse).
- Clearly for her, the institution of the levirate was of no help, since she would not be able to bear a son for her dead husband's household.
- The firstborn child of this levirate marriage is considered the deceased's child.
Origin Early 18th century: from Latin levir ‘brother-in-law’ + -ate. |