They are their husband's "helpmeet", designed to support him as head of the household and primary breadwinner.

BBC: Sarah Dawes and her children

He was without responsibilities after a long professional career, and for three years now he had been without the one person, helpmeet and bickering companion, who could shake him out of his recliner and force him into the world.

NEWYORKER: The Valetudinarian