widowhood

Widowhood refers to the state of having lost a spouse through death. It typically describes women who have outlived their husbands, though men who lose wives are also described as widowed; the term for men is widower. The transition begins at the death and can extend for years as the survivor adjusts to life without a partner.

Widowhood is most often caused by the death of a spouse. It commonly occurs with aging, and the burden is greater in societies with longer life expectancy. Women are disproportionately represented among widows due to longer female lifespans. Cultural expectations and rituals surrounding widowhood vary widely and can influence the surviving person's social role and daily life.

The experience commonly involves emotional responses such as grief, sadness, and loneliness. It can disrupt social networks, daily routines, and financial stability. Economic consequences may include reduced household income, loss of a partner's shared assets, and changes in eligibility for pensions or survivor benefits; women are often more economically vulnerable after widowhood in many regions.

Coping strategies include social support from family and friends, participation in community or religious groups, grief counseling, and engagement in meaningful activities. Some survivors find solace in rituals, memory practices, or practical tasks once handled by the deceased to restore a sense of normalcy.

Remarriage decisions vary by culture and personal choice, and the mourning period can influence readiness. Public and private programs, such as survivor pensions, health benefits, and inheritance rights, affect financial security. Overall, widowhood is recognized as a significant life transition that may require emotional, social, and economic adjustments.