Widow vs. Widower 

"Widow" vs. "Widower" in English

What Is Their Main Difference?

Both are related to the death of the partner. However, 'widow' refers to a woman whose husband died, while, 'widower' refers to a man whose wife died.

Differences

A 'widow' is a woman whose husband died, whereas, a 'widower' refers to a man whose wife died. Check out the following examples:

Example

Words like 'widow' are sexist.

The clergyman called me a widower.

Similarities

Both refer to people whose partners are dead. Look below:

Example

No woman likes to be called a widow.

I believe the word widower is abusive towards women.

Are They Interchangeable?

Since they refer o different genders, they cannot be used interchangeably. Note that these words are sexist and people tend to avoid using such gender-specific words. Compare:

Example

✓ Ross is not a widower.

X Ross is not a widow.

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