Legal Definitions - tenancy by the curtesy

Tenancy by the curtesy is a legal term that refers to a husband's right to a life estate in the land that his wife owned during their marriage, upon her death, assuming that a child was born alive to the couple. This right has been largely abolished.

For example, if John and Jane were married and owned a house together, and Jane passed away, John would have the right to live in the house for the rest of his life, as long as they had a child together.

It's important to note that this right has been largely abolished, meaning that it's not commonly used in modern times.

Overall, tenancy by the curtesy is a legal term that refers to a husband's right to a life estate in his wife's property after her death, assuming they had a child together.