Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

levirate

noun

/ˈlɛvɪreɪt/

Definition

A levirate is a marriage in which a widowed woman marries her deceased husband’s brother in order to preserve family lineage.

Examples

In ancient cultures, the levirate was commonly practiced to maintain the family’s bloodline.
The levirate custom still exists in some societies today, illustrating the importance of familial ties.

Meaning

The term originates from the Latin word ‘levir’, meaning ‘brother-in-law’, and refers specifically to the practice where a man is obliged to marry his brother’s widow to ensure protection and support for her and to carry on the deceased brother’s name.