Definition of divorce

The word "divorce" has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. The term originates from the Old French word "divors," meaning "to separate" or "to split." This Old French word is derived from the Latin phrase "dissolvere," which means "to loosen" or "to dissolve." In the 13th century, the Latin phrase "dissolvere" was used to describe the act of severing a marriage contract. The Old French "divors" eventually evolved into the Middle English "divors," and subsequently, the modern English word "divorce." Over time, the term "divorce" has come to describe the formal dissolution of a marriage, often involving a legal process and the eventual annulment of marital bonds. Despite its modern usage, the concept of "divorce" has roots in ancient languages, underscoring the significant impact of linguistic evolution on our understanding of complex social institutions like marriage.