dower

¹dow·er

noun \ˈdau̇(-ə)r\

Definition of DOWER

1

: the part of or interest in the real estate of a deceased husband given by law to his widow during her life — compare curtesy

2

a : dowry 2 b : dowry 3

Origin of DOWER

Middle English dowere, from Anglo-French dower, douaire, from Medieval Latin dotarium, from Latin dot-, dos gift, marriage portion — more at date

First Known Use: 14th century