Legal Definitions - praeposita negotiis vel rebus domesticis

Definition: Praeposita negotiis vel rebus domesticis (pronounced pri-poz-uh-tuh ni-goh-shee-is vel ree-buhs duh-mes-ti-sis) is a Latin term that refers to being set over domestic affairs. This phrase was commonly used to describe a wife's status in historical times.

Example: In ancient Rome, a woman who was praeposita negotiis vel rebus domesticis was responsible for managing the household, including overseeing the servants, managing the finances, and ensuring that everything ran smoothly.

Explanation: This example illustrates how the term was used in ancient Rome to describe a woman's role in managing the household. The woman who held this position was responsible for all domestic affairs and was considered to be an important member of the household.