alienation of affections legal definition

In tort law, the willful or malicious interference with the relationship between a husband and wife by a third party without justification or excuse. The interference may be adultery or some other act that deprives one of the affection of a spouse. It also includes mental pain and suffering such as anguish, humiliation, embarrassment, and loss of social position as well as actual financial losses caused by the disruption or destruction of the marital relationship. See consortium.