Meaning & Definition of word "Alimony"

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    Alimony

    /ˌælɪˈmoʊni/

    noun:

    • 1. A court-ordered provision for financial support from one spouse to another after separation or divorce.
      • Example: After their divorce, she received a substantial amount in alimony to help cover her living expenses.
    • 2. Payments made to a former spouse as part of a divorce settlement.
      • Example: He was required to pay alimony for three years following the end of their marriage.
    • 3. Financial assistance provided to former partners that allows them to maintain a similar standard of living post-divorce.
      • Example: The judge granted her alimony based on her inability to support herself after the separation.
    • 4. Compensation awarded to a divorced spouse for contributions made during the marriage.
      • Example: His ex-wife was entitled to alimony since she had sacrificed her career for his job advancement.
    • 5. A legally mandated payment made to ensure one spouse's financial stability after a marital separation.
      • Example: The couple negotiated the terms of alimony before finalizing their divorce agreement.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'alimonia', meaning 'nourishment' or 'support'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    alimony agreement:

    A formal arrangement outlining the terms of alimony payments.

    alimony law:

    Legal regulations governing alimony payments.

    temporary alimony:

    Financial support provided during divorce proceedings.

    Related Words

    support:

    Financial assistance provided to someone.

    divorce:

    The legal dissolution of a marriage.

    spousal:

    Relating to a spouse.

    Slang Meanings of alimony

    Meaning: The 'gold digger fund'

    Example Sentence: After the divorce, he's going to have to pay her what some call the 'gold digger fund' in alimony.

    Meaning: Cash for the ex

    Example Sentence: He joked that his alimony payments were just cash for the ex.