A "prison wife" refers to a woman who is married to or in a committed relationship with someone who is incarcerated. This relationship often involves maintaining emotional and financial support for the partner while they serve their sentence. Communication typically occurs through letters, phone calls, and visits, which can be limited by prison regulations. The role of a prison wife can be challenging, as it may involve dealing with stigma and isolation from friends and family. Many women in this situation also face the emotional strain of their partner's absence and the uncertainty of their future together, especially regarding reentry into society after release.