community property

noun

: property held jointly by a married couple

Examples of community property in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
How Do Courts Divide Property Without A Prenup? States apply one of two distinct approaches when dividing marital property in a divorce: community property and equitable distribution. Julia Rodgers, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025 In California and other community property states, both halves of the house get this step up. Liz Weston, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 July 2025 Without a prenup, contributions like wedding funds, down payments or even regular allowances could be at risk of being treated as marital or community property. Julia Rodgers, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 Thus, in 1995, the Arizona Legislature adopted legislation for married couples to be able to take title to a home as community property with right of survivorship. Christopher A. Combs, The Arizona Republic, 3 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for community property

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of community property was in 1848

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Cite this Entry

“Community property.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/community%20property. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.

Legal Definition

community property

see property

More from Merriam-Webster on community property

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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