domestic partner

American  

[duh-mes-tik pahrt-ner] / dəˈmɛs tɪk ˈpɑrt nər /

noun

1. either member of an unmarried, cohabiting heterosexual or gay couple whose relationship status grants certain legal rights and protections similar to those of spouses.

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Other Word Forms

• domestic partnership noun

Etymology

Origin of domestic partner

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Chen’s domestic partner, Runhua Hou or Rachael Hou, 32, is accused of assisting Chen.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 7, 2024

Ask about the maximum amount the policy will pay out and if the benefits can be shared by a domestic partner or spouse.

From New York Times • Nov. 22, 2023

Such an order typically requires a court finding that the person “represents a credible threat” to a domestic partner.

From Slate • Jun. 23, 2023

Howard K. Stern — Smith's attorney, agent and domestic partner — continued to fight on behalf of her estate but in 2011, the Supreme Court posthumously ruled against Smith.

From Salon • May 17, 2023

But still, for a sober domestic partner, the new town is no ill companion to the ancient city on the hill.

From Royal Edinburgh Her Saints, Kings, Prophets and Poets by Reid, George