House

Definition

House is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a building for human habitation, typically one that is lived in by a family or individual. It can also refer to a legislative body or a commercial organization. As a verb, it means to provide accommodation or shelter for someone or something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (noun): /haʊs/
• Respelling (noun): HOWS
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /haʊz/
• Respelling (verb): HOWZ

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (noun): /haʊs/
• Respelling (noun): HOWS
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /haʊz/
• Respelling (verb): HOWZ

Etymology

The word "house" originates from Old English "hūs," meaning "dwelling or shelter," derived from Proto-Germanic "*hūsą" and Proto-Indo-European "*ḱew-" meaning "to cover or conceal."

Derivatives

• Household (noun)
• Housing (noun)
• Housed (verb)
• Housekeeper (noun)
• Housewarming (noun)

Synonyms

• Home
• Dwelling
• Residence

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "house" is commonly used to describe a place of habitation, as in "They bought a new house last year." The verb form refers to providing accommodation, such as "The stadium was built to house 50,000 spectators."

Related Terms

• Home: A place where one lives permanently.
• Apartment: A set of rooms within a building, typically rented.
• Shelter: A place giving protection or refuge.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A building for human habitation: Refers to a residential structure.
  • Example: "The house on the hill has a beautiful view."
• A legislative or deliberative body: Refers to an organization or chamber for decision-making.
  • Example: "The bill was passed by the House of Representatives."
• A commercial organization or company: Refers to a business or brand, often in creative industries.
  • Example: "The fashion house unveiled its latest collection."

Verb

• To provide accommodation or shelter: Refers to offering a place for someone or something to stay.
  • Example: "The building was renovated to house a library."
• To contain or store: Refers to placing something within a structure.
  • Example: "The museum houses a valuable art collection."