sep·a·ra·tion /ˌse-pə-'rā-shən/ n
1: cessation of cohabitation between a married couple by mutual agreement with intent that it be permanent; also: legal separation compare divorce
◇ In some cases in which the estrangement is extreme, a separation is considered to have occurred even when the couple retain the same residence if they have stopped communicating and engaging in sexual relations and intend to be separated.
2: termination of a contractual relationship (as employment or military service)
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.