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dower Definition

dower (do̵u′ər)

noun

  1. that part of a man's property which his widow inherits for life
  2. a dowry
  3. a natural talent, gift, or endowment

Etymology: ME douere < OFr douaire < ML dotarium < L dos: see dot

transitive verb

  1. to give a dower to
  2. to endow (with)

dower Law Definition

n

Common law; the right of a wife to one third of the real property owned by her husband at his death, for the duration of her life.

dower Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • claim: Note f: Who claimed dower from Richard de Plaiz in 1256 ( Sussex Fines, Sussex Rec.
  • restore: Allah most high forbade them to send them back, but ordered them to restore the dower.

Modifies a noun

  • house: In the event of his death it was intended to be her dower house, along with a house in Montrose.
  • estate: Both surveys cover the entire estate, the first distinguishing what lands were part of the dower estate.