a question about the usage of the word "spouse"

[zzbkaylee]

Does a woman's spouse have to be a man?
I'm wondering whether this word can be used in a homosexual contexts.
If I encounter this word in an article, can I conclude the gender of the person mentioned?

Thanks a lot for your help!

 

[jutfrank]

No. In a same-sex marriage, a woman's spouse is another woman.

 

[Rover_KE]

Does a woman's spouse have to be a man?

No.

spouse
n.

1. either member of a married pair in relation to the other;
   one's husband or wife.

(Collins)

 

[Piscean]

In a same-sex marriage, a woman's spouse is another woman.

Agreed, though It seems to me that most people in such relationships refer to their wife/husband or their partner.

 

[PeterCW]

Agreed, though It seems to me that most people in such relationships refer to their wife/husband or their partner.

"Partner" can refer to a member of any unmarried couple regardless of sexuality. Context is important as it can also mean a business partner.

 

[Piscean]

However, some married couples use the word.

 

[emsr2d2]

These days, many people use the word "partner" because it's really no one else's business whether you're married, living together, gay, straight or any other possibility. Context would generally dictate whether you're talking about your romantic partner or your business partner.