wifelike

/'waiflaik/ Cách viết khác : (wifely) /'waifli/

Thân thiện

She performed the wifelike duty of mending his favorite shirt.

Definition

Adjective: - Befitting or characteristic of a wife: Describing qualities, behaviors, or attributes that are considered appropriate, typical, or ideal for a wife. This often implies traits such as being supportive, caring, domestic, or devoted in a manner traditionally associated with the role of a wife.

Usage

The adjective "wifelike" is used to describe a person's demeanor, actions, or qualities. It is typically applied to a woman or her behavior, suggesting she embodies the conventional or expected virtues of a wife. The word can carry a neutral, descriptive tone but may also be used in a slightly archaic or formal context.

Examples

• Her wifelike devotion was evident in how she supported his career.
• She performed her duties with a quiet, wifelike grace.
• The novel's heroine is praised for her wifely (a common variant) or wifelike virtues.

Advanced Usage

• The term can sometimes be used in a broader, metaphorical sense to describe an attitude of unwavering support or dedication, even outside of marriage.
  • His assistant's wifelike attention to detail ensured the project's success.
• It can appear in historical or literary analysis to discuss gender roles.
  • The character's wifelike submission is a product of the era's social norms.

Variants and Related Words

• Wifely (adj): This is a far more common and frequently used synonym with the same meaning as "wifelike."
  • She offered him wifely advice.
• Wife (n): The noun from which the adjective is derived.
• Husbandly (adj): The corresponding adjective for a husband (befitting or characteristic of a husband).

Synonyms

• Conjugal: Pertaining to marriage or the relationship between spouses.
• Matronly: Like a mature, dignified married woman, often implying a sense of authority or kindness.
• Domestic: Pertaining to the home or household affairs.

Antonyms

• Unwifely: Not befitting a wife.
• Husbandlike (or Husbandly): Befitting a husband.

Notes on Usage

• "Wifelike" vs. "Wifely": "Wifely" is the standard and predominant form. "Wifelike" is less common and can sound somewhat formal or old-fashioned.
• The concept is culturally and historically specific, reflecting traditional views of marriage and gender roles. Its use in modern contexts may be carefully considered.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. befitting or characteristic of a wife

Từ đồng nghĩa

• wifely
• uxorial