Uxoricide

Uxoricide (from Latin uxor meaning "wife") is murder of one's wife. It can refer to the act itself or the man who carries it out. Uxoricide is often preceeded by the wife's attempt to leave her husband, or by real or suspected infidelity. Overkill is reported to be common in these slayings, presumably reflecting the emotional state of the killer.

In many patriarchal cultures uxoricide is regarded less harshly than other forms of homicide, especially in cases of adultery. It may even be regarded as the correct, honourable thing to do. (See honor killing)