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significant other
noun
: a person who is important to one's well-being
especially
: a spouse or one in a similar relationship
Examples of significant other in a Sentence
Before you make such an important decision, you should talk it over with your significant other.
she has threatened to divorce her significant other if he doesn't stop gambling
Recent Examples on the Web
The 31-year-old, who lives in rural Pennsylvania, has spent little of his adult life without a significant other.
—Li Cohen, CBS News, 15 May 2024
Her surprise party was attended by all cast members and their significant others — except Giudice’s husband, Luis Ruelas.
—Charna Flam, Peoplemag, 11 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for significant other
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'significant other.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1940, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of significant other was
in 1940
Dictionary Entries Near significant other
Cite this Entry
“Significant other.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/significant%20other. Accessed 1 Jun. 2024.
Medical Definition
significant other
noun
significant oth·er
-ˈət͟h-ər
: a person who is important to one's well-being
especially
: a spouse or one in a similar relationship
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