Domestic: meaning, definitions and examples

This word can also refer to issues or activities within a specific country, often used in politics and economics.

• The government is focusing on domestic policy.
• Domestic flights are usually cheaper than international ones.

Used to describe wild animals that have been trained to be calm and not afraid of humans. It can also mean to control or subdue something.

• The lion in the circus is surprisingly tame.
• It took a lot of effort to tame the wild horse.
• He had to tame his anger before speaking.

Used when referring to animals that people keep primarily for companionship and entertainment, rather than work or food.

• My pet rabbit loves to hop around the garden.
• Goldfish are one of the easiest pets to care for.

This word is used to describe animals that have been trained or bred for living with humans. These animals rely on humans for food and shelter.

• Domesticated animals like cows and sheep are essential for farming.
• Dogs were among the first animals to be domesticated.

Use 'domestic' when talking about something related to the home or family life, often emphasizing the personal or private aspect.

• She has a lot of domestic responsibilities
• They bought a new domestic appliance for their kitchen

Use 'servant' when talking about someone employed to perform tasks for another person, usually in a home. It has a more historical context and can often carry a negative connotation, implying less equality.

• In the past, many wealthy families had several servants
• He treated her like a servant, which was very unfair

Use 'household staff' when referring to a collective group of employees working in a home, often in larger or wealthier households.

• The household staff includes the cook, the gardener, and the butler
• The household staff was well-trained and very professional

Use 'maid' when talking about a female employee working in a home, usually performing cleaning and other domestic tasks. It can sometimes be considered old-fashioned or less respectful.

• The maid came every morning to clean the rooms
• She hired a maid to help with the housework