Dictionary-enhanced plural guide
What is the Plural of “Wife”?
Learn the singular and plural noun forms, the rule behind the plural, and examples that show the form in context.
Singular and Plural Form of Wife
Wife is the singular noun form. Wives is the plural form.
Dictionary meaning: a married woman, especially in relation to her husband
Why is the Plural of Wife “wives”?
The Irregular Plural Rule for Wife
This noun has an irregular plural form that does not follow standard English pluralization rules.
Plural pattern: irregular.
How to Remember the Plural of Wife
“wife” → “wives” is an irregular plural — there is no rule, so memorise the pair as a whole. Try writing it in 3 sentences today.
A common slip-up: WYFE (adding extra syllable); say WYF clearly.
Singular vs Plural Examples with Wife
See wife and wives used in real sentences side by side.
- He introduced his wife to me. A2
- My wife likes coffee. A1
- The wife and husband work together. A2
Common Plural Mistakes with Wife
Wrong: wifes
Correct: wives
Irregular plural: change f to v and add -es
Wrong: the wife house
Correct: the wifes house
Use possessive -s for singular wife
How to Pronounce Wife and Wives
Pronounced WYF, rhymes with knife and life. The plural changes f to v.
Other Words With the Same Plural Pattern as Wife
These nouns follow the same irregular rule. Click any word to see its plural page.
A young boy or girl who is not yet an adult.
the two parts at the bottom of your legs that touch the…
A tiny insect that lives around food and moves very fast.
One of two equal parts that make up something complete.
A grown-up male person. A man is an adult male, not a…
The ability to remember things from the past, or the thought you…
One human; a single individual.
Money that a person earns from their job, paid regularly by their…
Origin and Etymology of Wife
Old English wīf (woman, female), later narrowed to mean married woman
Cultural note: The term housewife describes a woman managing the home; connotations vary across cultures.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Plural of Wife
What is the plural of “wife”?
The plural of “wife” is “wives”.
Is “wives” regular or irregular?
This page classifies it as irregular based on the available plural data.