First Lady of the United States (FLOTUS), is the title and position held by the spouse of the President of the United States, concurrent with the president's term of office. Although the first lady’s role has never been codified or officially defined, she figures prominently in the political and social life of the nation. While the title was not in general use until much later, Martha Washington, the wife of George Washington, the first U.S. President (1789–1797), is considered to be the first First Lady of the United States. During her lifetime she was often referred to as "Lady Washington".