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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Away from the movie cameras, though, both actors are happily married to their significant others, who are also familiar with Hollywood. Christopher Rudolph, People.com, 11 July 2025 Those interviews and documents showed how offenders of intimate partner violence may not only abuse or even kill their significant other but also irrevocably harm others in their proximity. Click or tap here to learn more. Quinlan Bentley, The Enquirer, 7 July 2025 Among the people attending the vigil was Walker’s significant other, who was also hit in the shooting and appeared on crutches. Michael Loria, USA Today, 4 July 2025 Have a conversation with your significant other and children about what your values are or should be. Harmon Kong, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for significant other

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of significant other was in 1940

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Significant other.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/significant%20other. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

significant other

noun
significant oth·​er -ˈət͟h-ər How to pronounce significant other (audio)
: a person who is important to one's well-being
especially : a spouse or one in a similar relationship
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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