Uxor: The Legal Significance of the Term for 'Wife'

Definition & Meaning

The term "uxor" is derived from Latin and translates to "wife" in English. It is often abbreviated as "ux." In legal documents, particularly older property deeds, you may encounter the phrase "et uxor," which means "and wife." This terminology reflects historical views where a wife was seen as a legal appendage to her husband, often not named individually in legal contexts.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

In a property deed, you might see a listing like "John Doe et ux," indicating that John Doe owns the property along with his wife. This reflects the legal recognition of their marital status in property ownership.

(Hypothetical example) A couple may need to fill out a legal form for joint ownership of a home, using "et uxor" to denote the wife's legal rights in the property.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Marital Property Laws
California Community property state; both spouses have equal rights to property acquired during marriage.
Texas Community property state; similar to California, with specific rules on property division.
New York Equitable distribution state; courts divide marital property fairly but not necessarily equally.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Uxor Latin term for wife; often used in legal documents. Specifically denotes the wife in legal contexts.
Spouse Gender-neutral term for a partner in marriage. Includes both husbands and wives, making it more inclusive.
Partner Refers to a person in a relationship, not necessarily married. Broader term that can include non-marital relationships.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you encounter the term "uxor" in legal documents, it is important to understand its implications for property rights and marital status. Consider using legal templates from US Legal Forms to assist with any paperwork. If your situation is complex, consulting a legal professional may be beneficial to ensure your rights are protected.

Quick facts

  • Term: Uxor
  • Meaning: Wife in Latin
  • Usage: Primarily in legal documents
  • Historical Context: Reflects past views on marital roles

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

"Et uxor" means "and wife" in Latin, used in legal documents to indicate a husband and wife ownership.