work spouse

Definitions

noun idiomatic A man or woman in the workplace with whom one shares a special relationship having bonds similar to those of a marriage: special confidences, loyalties, shared jokes and experiences, and unusual degree of honesty or openness.

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Yeah, some people seem to think the term work spouse always implies some sort of close emotional relationship, like bordering on inappropriate. But, in my experience this is rarely the case.

Is men having a "work wife" really a thing or did Reddit make it up? 2026
I want a work spouse! I tend to agree that they enhance performance and make life at work much easier and more pleasant. I’ve had them in previous jobs, but where I am now, I have an office frenemy instead, and that has the opposite effect!

work spouses, creativity vs. productivity, and more Ask a Manager 2018