widowhood

American  

[wid-oh-hood] / ˈwɪd oʊˌhʊd /

noun

1. the state or a period of being a widow or, sometimes, a widower.

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Etymology

Origin of widowhood

before 900; Middle English wid ( e ) wehood, Old English widuwanhād, equivalent to widuwan, genitive singular of widuwe widow + -hād -hood

Example Sentences

“I have a gift for you, your gracious widowhood,” he announced to the Widow Ashton.

From Literature

The remarks drew attention for their deeply personal nature, given Massie’s long record of public service and the sensitive circumstances of his widowhood.

From Salon

After a few years of navigating widowhood, the women in my grief group encouraged me to get back “out there.”

From Los Angeles Times

I had no idea what the future held: young widowhood, a major career change and love later in life with a man I’ll likely continue growing older with, a man who isn’t Joel.

From Los Angeles Times

Queen Victoria came in for relentless criticism for hiding away in her widowhood for 40 years, dodging public engagements, not giving “value for money” by keeping the glittering royal show wrapped in mourning.

From Los Angeles Times