Neighbour

Definition

Neighbour is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a person living near or next to another. As a verb (less common), it means to be situated close to or to live near someone or something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈneɪ.bɚ/
• Respelling: NAY-bur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈneɪ.bə/
• Respelling: NAY-buh

Etymology

The word "neighbour" originates from Old English "nēahgebūr," a combination of "nēah" (near) and "gebūr" (dweller). It was later adopted into Middle English as "neighbore" and has been used consistently to mean a person living nearby.

Derivatives

• Neighbourhood (noun)
• Neighbourly (adjective)
• Neighbouring (adjective)
• Neighbourliness (noun)
• Neighbourship (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Resident
• Dweller
• Comrade

Antonyms

• Stranger
• Foreigner
• None

Usage

The term "neighbour" is commonly used to describe individuals living near one another or to emphasize a sense of community. For example, "Our neighbours invited us for dinner" (noun) or "The library neighbours the school" (verb).

Related Terms

• Community: A group of people living together in one area.
• Friend: Someone with whom a person shares a bond of mutual affection.
• Vicinity: The area near or surrounding a particular place.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person living near or next to another: Refers to someone residing in proximity.
  • Example: "She is friendly with her neighbours."
• A country, state, or thing adjacent to another: Refers to geographical proximity.
  • Example: "Canada is the northern neighbour of the United States."

Verb

• To be situated next to or near: Refers to proximity between locations or entities.
  • Example: "The park neighbours the shopping mall."