significant other

noun

: a person who is important to one's well-being

especially : a spouse or one in a similar relationship

Synonyms of significant other

• partner
• spouse
• better half
• husband

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

So, here’s a step-by-step itinerary that would be perfect for a daddy-daughter day, family outing, date with your significant other, or just to treat yourself. — Justin Brown, AJC.com, 16 Aug. 2026

The 13 teams this time out include two women’s pro athletes, as well as the usual mix of siblings, parents and kids, BFFs and significant others. — Michael Schneider, Variety, 12 Aug. 2026

A lot of attendees are bringing their significant other or a friend or kids. — Victoria Gomelsky, Robb Report, 10 Aug. 2026

In the nearly three-minute clip, fresh drama unfolds, including emotional conversations between Katsanevas and Rose about the status of their relationships with their significant others. — Morgan Evans, USA Today, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for significant other

• another
• godmother
• grandmother
• stepbrother
• stepmother
• brother
• mother
• nother
• smother
• souther

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