husband - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
husband Word Meanings
- a married man
- the male partner in a marriage
- a man who has a wife
husband Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
husband Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhʌzbənd/
US
/ˈhʌzbənd/
husband Word Etymology
The word 'husband' comes from the Old English 'husbonda', which is composed of 'hus' (house) + 'bonda' (dweller). Historically, it evolved from the Old Norse 'húsbondi'. Imagine a man taking care of a home, symbolizing stability and protection.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lift my mug to the morning light and watch the steam rise as he steps into the kitchen. We move through chores, adjust plans when the day shifts, and the simple title settles into our voices as husband. I hold his hand at the door, keep him steady when a tough choice must be made, and the feeling of us lingers long after the dishes.
Real Context
In English, husband means a married man who shares life with his wife. It is a gendered noun used in formal, family, and everyday contexts, distinguishing marriage from other adult relationships. You often hear 'my husband' or 'the husband of X' in conversations, marriage vows, legal documents, and social situations. The word carries connotations of partnership, responsibility, and commitment, but those nuances vary by culture and era. When referring to someone else’s spouse, you say 'the husband of' or simply name the person. Do not use 'husband' to mean a male partner in a non-marital relationship; use 'partner' or 'significant other.' Possessives are formed as 'husband's' and the plural as 'husbands'.
Usage Reminders
- • Use with possessives: my husband, his wife’s husband.
- • Do not use for non-marital partners; use partner instead.
- • Plural is husbands.
- • Be mindful of formal vs casual tone.
- • Distinguish husband from man in general contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- A husband is just a man, not necessarily tied to marriage.
- Husband can be used for a boyfriend or fiancé in casual speech.
- You can refer to your husband as 'my man' in all contexts.
- The word always implies traditional gender roles.
- If a couple is same-sex, only one partner can be called husband.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: 'husband' is a clear, gendered term for a married man; learners should note its formal vs. intimate tone and avoid using it for non-married male partners.
Learning Tips
- Practice using 'husband' with a specific context (family, vows, legal) to feel tone.
- Compare with 'partner' for non-marital relationships.
- Memorize possessives: husband's, husbands.
- Avoid using 'husband' to mean 'man' or 'guy' in casual speech.
- Learn common collocations (husband and wife, husband of...).
- Listen for cultural nuances in different contexts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'husband'?
A.Brother
B.Married man
C.Father
D.Single man
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following context is the word 'husband' used?
A.At a bakery
B.In a school
C.In a marriage ceremony
D.At a hospital
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a similar word to 'husband'?
A.Cousin
B.Wife
C.Uncle
D.Sister
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'husband'?
A.Single man
B.Father
C.Brother
D.Married man
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where you would use the word 'husband'?
A.At a wedding
B.At a pet shop
C.At a library
D.At a park
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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