How Do You Spell LEVIRATE?

Pronunciation: [lˈɛvɪɹˌe͡ɪt] (IPA)

The word "levirate" is spelled luh-vuh-reyt and is derived from the Latin word levir, meaning "husband's brother." In Judaism and other cultures, the levirate custom dictates that a man must marry his deceased brother's widow. The IPA transcription of this word is /ləˈvɪrət/ which breaks down into luh, representing the schwa sound, and the emphasis on the second syllable with the long "i" sound, followed by the "ruh" sound, and ending with the "t" sound.

LEVIRATE Meaning and Definition

1. The term "levirate" refers to a custom or practice in which a man marries the widow of his deceased brother. It is derived from the Latin word "levir," which means brother-in-law. The levirate custom exists in various cultures and is often associated with inheritance rights, social obligations, and fulfilling familial or religious duties.

   In this practice, when a man dies, it becomes the responsibility of his brother to marry his widow. This is done in order to ensure the continuation of the deceased brother's lineage, support the widow, and provide for any children they may have had. The levirate custom can also involve the inheritance of the deceased brother's property or possessions, as the widow is seen as part of the brother's family.

   The levirate practice can be found in various cultures throughout history, including ancient Mesopotamia, ancient Egypt, and among certain African tribes. It is also mentioned in religious texts, such as the Bible, where it is depicted as a biblical law or obligation.

   However, it is important to note that the levirate custom is not universally practiced or accepted in all cultures. In some societies, it may be seen as outdated or inappropriate, while in others, it may still be a customary requirement. The levirate custom is often linked to traditional gender roles and expectations surrounding marriage, kinship, and familial responsibilities.

2. Pert. to the Jewish law by which a widow without issue was to be married to the brother of her deceased husband.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for LEVIRATE

• kevirate
• pevirate
• oevirate
• lwvirate
• lsvirate
• ldvirate
• lrvirate
• l4virate
• l3virate
• lecirate
• lebirate
• legirate
• lefirate
• levurate
• levjrate
• levkrate
• levorate
• lev9rate
• lev8rate

Etymology of LEVIRATE

The word "levirate" comes from the Latin term "leviratus", which means "the condition of being a levir" or "of a brother-in-law". The Latin term is derived from the root word "levir", meaning "brother-in-law". The term was originally used in ancient Roman law to refer to the custom in which a man would marry the widow of his deceased brother. Over time, the concept of levirate marriage, and consequently the word "levirate", spread to various cultures and languages, including Hebrew and English.

Plural form of LEVIRATE is LEVIRATES