Helpmeet
/ˈhɛlpˌmiːt/noun
A spouse or companion regarded as a suitable helper or partner, especially a wife.
Did you know?The word arose when English readers reinterpreted the biblical phrase “an help meet for him,” where “meet” meant “suitable,” not “mate” or “assistant.”
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Hebrew
Hebrew
ʿēzer kenegdô
“A helper corresponding to him or facing him; the phrase used in Genesis 2:18”
Late Old English
English
help
“Aid, assistance, or a person who provides support”
16th Century
English
an help meet for him
“A biblical English rendering meaning a helper suitable or fitting for him”
17th Century
English
helpmeet
“A person regarded as a suitable helper or spouse, formed by treating “help meet” as one noun”
19th Century
English
helpmeet
“A wife or domestic partner, often used in religious or literary language”
Modern English
English
helpmeet
“A spouse or companion viewed as a supportive and well-matched partner”