[Lexicog] First Lady

[John Roberts]

Michael,

The term CONSORT is usually used for the husband or wife of a reigning 
monarch. And so would not be appropriate for the spouse of an elected 
president of a republic. The Duke of Edinburgh is called the queen's 
consort, but this is not an official title. Prince Albert (who was his Royal 
Highness Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha) was created Prince Consort 
by Queen Victoria in 1857. This was an official title. Monarchs can do that.

>From what Bill Poser and Chaz said it looks like 'First Lady' is an official 
position in the US constitution and does not necessarily need to be the 
spouse of the elected president. But this position does need to be filled. 
So a title of FIRST SPOUSE or maybe FIRST PARTNER wouldn't do. And the US 
media are now talking about a 'First Gentleman' to president Hilary Clinton. 
So the official position now has two terms. What if the elected president 
was gay would his partner be called 'First Gentleman'?

But I am curious to know who has decided on the 'First Gentleman' as an 
alternative to 'First Lady'? If this is an official position shouldn't the 
term(s) for it be decided by the US government? Or do the media decide on 
such things in the US?

John Roberts




 
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