levirate noun. ['li:vɪrǝt] E18.
[formed as LEVIR + -ATE¹.]
The custom among ancient Hebrews and some other peoples, which obliged a dead man's brother or next of kin under certain circumstances to marry his widow.

■ levi'ratic adjective pertaining to or in accordance with the levirate E20.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲