levirate

/lɪˈvaɪrɪt/ (li-VAY-ruh-t)

Definitions

1. noun

The practice of a man marrying the sister of his deceased brother, especially in ancient Jewish law.

“In some cultures, the levirate is still practiced today as a way to preserve family ties.”

Synonyms

  • coverture
  • survivorship marriage

Antonyms

  • annulment
  • divorce