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

Leveraging a proprietary panelized construction system, Cosmic creates carbon-positive dwellings that produce clean energy and water from renewable sources. —Josipa Majic Predin, Forbes, 25 Sep. 2024

These lunar babes change their attitude daily, collect meaningful items (Mr. Heckles is a hoarder) and protect their dwellings at any cost. —Lisa Stardust, Peoplemag, 22 Sep. 2024

Those who consider their family's dwelling their home can register and vote by mail there instead. —Torey Van Oot, Axios, 20 Sep. 2024

Texture and complexity show up in the vinyl library, the couple’s favorite room in their ever-evolving dwelling. —Essence, 11 Sep. 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.