Alimony
/ˈæl.ɪˌmoʊ.ni/noun
A financial support paid to a spouse after separation or divorce.
Did you know?The term 'alimony' is derived from a Latin word that signifies 'nourishment', hinting at its roots in the obligation to provide care even after separation.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
alimonia
“nourishment, sustenance”
14th Century
Old French
alimonie
“support or maintenance”
16th Century
Middle English
alimonie
“a legal term for support granted to a wife”
Modern English
English
alimony
“financial support paid to an ex-spouse after divorce”