Homeless

Definition

Homeless describes someone who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, often implying that the individual is living on the streets or in a shelter.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhoʊmləs/
• Respelling: HOHM-luhs (with "HOHM" as in "home" and "luhs" as in "bus")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhəʊmləs/
• Respelling: HOHM-luhs (with "HOHM" as in "home" and "luhs" as in "bus")

In both dialects, "homeless" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "HOHM." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "HOHM-luhs."

Etymology

The term "homeless" is composed of "home", referring to a place where one lives, and the suffix "-less", which denotes the absence or lack of something.

Derivatives

• Homelessness (noun)
• Homelessly (adverb)
• Unhomed (adjective)
• Home (noun, verb)
• Homeful (adjective)

Synonyms

• Displaced
• Unhoused
• Roofless

Antonyms

• Housed
• Sheltered
• Homed

Usage

The term "homeless" is used to describe individuals who do not have stable, permanent housing. It is commonly used in social and political discussions to address the challenges and needs of those without homes.

Related Terms

• Vagrant
• Street dweller
• Nomad
• Rough sleeper
• Transient

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Without a Permanent Residence: Lacking a stable and permanent place to live.
  • Example: The city has several programs to assist homeless individuals in finding housing.

• Living on the Streets or in Temporary Accommodation: Refers to people who are living in shelters, on the streets, or in temporary housing due to a lack of permanent residence.
  • Example: The homeless population increased significantly during the economic downturn.

Noun

• Individuals Lacking Stable Housing: People who do not have a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.
  • Example: The charity organization provides food and clothing to the homeless.

Note: The issue of homelessness is complex, often intersecting with factors like unemployment, addiction, mental health, and lack of affordable housing. Efforts to address homelessness often involve a combination of social, political, and economic strategies.