noun
A somewhat old-fashioned, warm term for one's spouse. Often used by older speakers or in literary contexts.
彼は連れ合いと一緒に旅行に出かけた。
He went on a trip with his spouse.
長年連れ合いとして支え合ってきた
We have supported each other as spouses for many years.
夫 is the standard word for 'husband', while 連れ合い is a warmer, more affectionate term for either spouse.
妻 is the standard word for 'wife', while 連れ合い is a warmer, more affectionate term for either spouse.
配偶者 is a formal, legal term for 'spouse', while 連れ合い is informal and carries emotional warmth.
Compound of 連れ (tsure, 'companion') + 合い (ai, 'mutual'), literally 'mutual companion'.