Legal Definitions - Uxor

Uxor is an older, largely antiquated legal term for wife. Originating from Latin, it was historically used in legal documents to refer to a married woman.

Most commonly, you would encounter "uxor" in the phrase et uxor (often abbreviated as et ux.), which translates to "and wife." This phrase was historically appended to a man's name in legal filings, property deeds, or case citations to indicate that his wife was also a party to the document or legal action, representing her interests alongside his.

While this practice is now largely obsolete, with modern legal documents typically listing the full names of all parties involved regardless of marital status or gender, "et uxor" might still be seen in historical records. In some rare, contemporary contexts, the term might be interpreted more broadly to mean a spouse of any gender.

• Example 1: Historical Property Deed

  Imagine reviewing a property deed from the early 20th century that states: "John Doe et uxor hereby convey the property located at 123 Main Street to Richard Roe."

  In this scenario, "et uxor" signifies that John Doe's wife was also a co-owner of the property and was joining him in the act of transferring ownership. It ensured that her legal interest in the property was acknowledged and conveyed.

• Example 2: Old Will or Estate Document

  Consider an antique will from the 19th century where a man bequeaths his estate, and a clause reads: "I appoint my beloved uxor, Jane Doe, as the sole executrix of this my last will and testament."

  Here, "uxor" is used directly as a formal, albeit archaic, way to refer to his wife, Jane Doe, confirming her role and relationship to the testator within the legal document.

• Example 3: Historical Court Case Citation

  You might come across a citation for an old court case listed as: "Brown v. Jones et ux. (1885)."

  This citation indicates that the lawsuit involved Mr. Jones and his wife as a party (or parties) against Mr. Brown. The "et ux." abbreviation confirms that Mrs. Jones's legal interests were formally included in the case, even if her first name wasn't explicitly stated in the short citation.