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

The friend suspected her former domestic partner, Alfred “Al” Labrada, who was then an assistant chief in the Los Angeles Police Department, had secretly planted the AirTag to monitor her movements after they broke up.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 9, 2025

“Don’t Let It Happen,” his first book, includes a colorful cover featuring a revolver in a pink lunchbox, as well as a forward credited to Adams’ longtime domestic partner, Tracey Collins.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 8, 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

Somewhat later I made the acquaintance of the domestic partner of the chat family.

From Upon The Tree-Tops by Miller, Olive Thorne