dwelling

noun

dwell·​ing ˈdwe-liŋ How to pronounce dwelling (audio)
: a shelter (such as a house) in which people live

Examples of dwelling in a Sentence

the simple dwellings in which the Pilgrims spent the first winter at Plymouth
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Arizona legislation passed earlier this year calls for cities with more than 75,000 people to allow small backyard homes, known as accessory dwelling units or casitas, to be built on properties with single-family homes. Catherine Reagor, The Arizona Republic, 29 Oct. 2024 The four-bedroom, four-and-a-half bathroom dwelling is defined by its tall ceilings, which are accentuated by ceiling beams, painted the same cream shade as the walls, and contrasting steel beams at the center of the open living space. Rachel Davies, Architectural Digest, 28 Oct. 2024 It’s reported that roughly 80% of the U.S. population lives in urban areas, which creates a concentration of dwellings where people live and work. Kelly Anonson, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024 This eco-friendly build-your-own playset lets kids—with their parents help—construct a multi-level dwelling, complete with drawbridge and trap door. Pamela Brill, Parents, 24 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for dwelling 

Word History

Etymology

see dwell

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dwelling was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near dwelling

Cite this Entry

“Dwelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dwelling. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

dwelling

noun
dwell·​ing
ˈdwel-iŋ
: a shelter in which people live : house

Legal Definition

dwelling

noun
dwell·​ing
: a structure where a person lives and especially sleeps

called also dwelling house

see also burglary

Note: Courts disagree as to how permanent or consistent the habitation of a structure must be in order for it to be considered a dwelling, but most courts agree that a dwelling includes its curtilage.

More from Merriam-Webster on dwelling

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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