■ noun
1》 the part of English law that is derived from custom and judicial precedent rather than statutes.
↘the body of English law as adopted and adapted by the different states of the US.
2》 [as modifier ] denoting a partner in a marriage recognized in some jurisdictions (excluding the UK) as valid by ~, though not brought about by a civil or ecclesiastical ceremony.
↘denoting a partner in a relationship in which a man and woman cohabit for a period long enough to suggest stability.