Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
HUS'BAND, a man lawfully joined to one woman in marriage, Gen 3:16, the house-band. A man betrothed, but not married, was called a husband, as the betrothals were considered sacred and inviolable. Matt 1:16. The husband is the head of the wife, Eph 5:23, inasmuch as he is the head of the household (though she is associated with him), and as such he is entitled to the respect and aflfection of all. See Marriage.