Feme covert meaning

Feme covert refers to a married woman who is legally covered by her husband and lacks independent legal status.


Feme covert definitions

Word backwards emef trevoc
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division fe-me co-vert
Plural The plural of the word feme covert is feme coverts.
Total letters 10
Vogais (2) e,o
Consonants (6) f,m,c,v,r,t

When discussing historical legal terminologies, the term feme covert arises as an important concept to understand. This term refers to the legal status of a married woman, particularly in English common law. In this system, a married woman was considered under the cover or protection of her husband, hence the term "feme covert." This status significantly impacted the rights and autonomy of women in various aspects of life.

History of Feme Covert

Throughout history, women were often seen as the property of their husbands upon marriage, thus losing many of their individual rights. Under the doctrine of coverture, a feme covert had limited legal capacity separate from her husband. She could not own property, enter into contracts, or file lawsuits on her own behalf. Instead, her legal rights and obligations were subsumed under those of her husband.

Implications of Feme Covert

This legal status had profound implications for women in terms of financial independence, autonomy, and legal protection. A feme covert had little control over her property or finances, as these were considered her husband's assets during marriage. In the case of inheritance, her husband typically inherited her property upon her death, further perpetuating the systemic inequality between men and women.

Legal Reforms and Evolution

Over time, legal reforms and changing societal norms have gradually eroded the concept of feme covert. Women's rights movements, changes in marriage laws, and advancements in gender equality have all contributed to expanding the legal rights and autonomy of married women. Today, the notion of feme covert is largely obsolete in most modern legal systems, where women are recognized as equal to men under the law.

In conclusion, the term feme covert sheds light on the historical subjugation of women under English common law. Understanding this concept is essential for appreciating the struggles and progress made in advancing women's rights and equality in society.


Feme covert Examples

  1. In medieval England, a feme covert had limited legal rights compared to a single woman.
  2. The feme covert's property automatically became her husband's upon marriage.
  3. A feme covert could not enter into contracts without her husband's permission.
  4. The legal status of a feme covert was gradually reformed over time.
  5. A feme covert was considered part of her husband's legal identity.
  6. The concept of feme covert was common in English common law.
  7. In legal documents, a feme covert was often referred to as "wife of."
  8. Some argue that the status of a feme covert was oppressive and restrictive.
  9. Women's rights advocates pushed for reforms to protect feme coverts.
  10. The legal status of feme coverts varied across different regions and time periods.


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  • Updated 02/04/2024 - 09:04:47