A "Surviving Spouse" refers to a person whose partner has passed away, typically in the context of marriage. This individual may have legal rights to inherit property, benefits, and other assets from the deceased spouse, depending on the laws of their jurisdiction and any existing wills or estate plans. In many cases, the surviving spouse may also be eligible for certain benefits, such as Social Security survivor benefits or pension payouts. The status of a surviving spouse can impact financial and legal matters, making it important for them to understand their rights and options during this challenging time.