Domestic

Definition

Domestic is an adjective used to describe something related to the home, family, or internal affairs of a nation. It can also refer to animals that are kept by humans for companionship or labor, as well as activities or policies confined within a particular country.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dəˈmɛstɪk/
• Respelling: duh-MES-tik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dəˈmɛstɪk/
• Respelling: duh-MES-tik

Etymology

The word "domestic" originates from the Latin "domesticus," meaning "of the home," which comes from "domus," meaning "house." It entered English in the late Middle Ages and retained its meaning related to the home or internal matters.

Derivatives

• Domesticate (verb)
• Domesticity (noun)
• Domesticated (adjective)
• Domesticable (adjective)
• Domestication (noun)

Synonyms

• Household
• Internal
• Home-based

Antonyms

• Foreign
• International
• External

Usage

The adjective "domestic" is used in contexts related to the home or internal affairs. For example, "She is responsible for domestic tasks such as cooking and cleaning." In government contexts, it refers to internal policies or issues, such as "domestic affairs" or "domestic policy."

Related Terms

• Household: The people or units living in a house or sharing domestic life.
• Homeland: The nation or country one identifies as home.
• National: Pertaining to a nation, especially in the context of internal affairs.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Related to the home or household: Refers to tasks, items, or issues associated with home life and family.
  • Example: "Domestic responsibilities include cooking and cleaning."
• Concerning a nation’s internal matters: Describes affairs, policies, or issues confined within a specific country.
  • Example: "The government focused on domestic policy reforms."
• Referring to animals bred and kept by humans: Often used for animals that live with or are raised by humans for companionship, work, or food.
  • Example: "Dogs and cats are common domestic animals."

Noun

• A domestic worker or servant: Refers to an individual employed to perform household tasks.
  • Example: "The family employed a domestic to help with chores."