Household

Definition

Household is a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to the members of a family or other group who live together in a single residence and share living arrangements. As an adjective, it describes items, tasks, or activities related to the home or household.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhaʊsˌhoʊld/
• Respelling: HOWS-hohld

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhaʊsˌhəʊld/
• Respelling: HOWS-hohld

Etymology

The word "household" originates from Middle English "houshold," a compound of "house" and "hold," referring to the occupants and management of a home. It has roots in Old English "hūs" (house) and "hold" (keeping or possession).

Derivatives

• Householder (noun)
• Housekeeping (noun)
• Household goods (noun)
• Household name (noun)
• Householding (verb, archaic)

Synonyms

• Home
• Family
• Residence

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "household" is used in contexts like "The average household size has decreased over the years." As an adjective, it is used to describe items or tasks related to the home, e.g., "Household chores are divided among family members."

Related Terms

• Home: The place where one resides.
• Domestic: Relating to the home or family.
• Family: A group of individuals related by blood or living together.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The occupants of a single residence: Refers to individuals living together under one roof.
  • Example: "The survey collected data on each household."
• A social unit sharing living arrangements: Refers to a group of people, often a family, who share responsibilities and space.
  • Example: "The household includes three generations."

Adjective

• Relating to or associated with the home: Describes items, tasks, or activities connected to domestic life.
  • Example: "Household appliances like refrigerators and washing machines are essential."
• Commonly known or familiar: Used figuratively to describe something widely recognized.
  • Example: "The actor became a household name after the movie's success."