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.
At least one half of the property — and both halves in community property states — get a new value for tax purposes when a spouse dies. — Liz Weston, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Feb. 2026 In states with community property laws State law can also affect who is responsible for unpaid debt. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 1 July 2026 If the borrower took out private student loans after getting married and lived in one of those community property states, the situation can be different. — Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 12 Mar. 2026 As Somoza supporters fled, their radio stations became community property. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Apr. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

community organization
community property
community school
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Community property.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/community%20property. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Legal Definition

community property

see also:
property

More from Merriam-Webster on community property

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about community property

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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