1. a custom in which a man is obligated to marry his deceased brother’s widow
Usage: anthropological; historical

1. relating to or involving the custom of levirate marriage
Usage: anthropological; historical

Examples

• The levirate was practiced in ancient Hebrew society.
• Many traditional cultures have some form of levirate marriage.
• The anthropologist studied levirate customs in various societies.
• Biblical law included provisions for levirate unions.
• The levirate system ensured widows would be cared for.
• This levirate tradition helped preserve family lineages.