dwelling

noun

dwell·​ing ˈdwe-liŋ 

: a shelter (such as a house) in which people live

Synonyms

• abode
• diggings
• domicile
• fireside
• habitation
• hearth
• hearthstone
• home
• house
• lodging
• pad
• place
• quarters
• residence
• roof

Examples of dwelling in a Sentence

the simple dwellings in which the Pilgrims spent the first winter at Plymouth

Recent Examples on the Web

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

Word History

Etymology

see dwell

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing dwelling

• dwelling place
• lake dwelling
• two-family house/dwelling

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.