Dwelling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dwelling
dwelling
Definition
place to live
A dwelling is a place where people live. It can be a house, apartment, or any other place where someone resides. Dwellings provide shelter and comfort for individuals or families.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dwelling |
Commonly used in legal, formal, or technical contexts to describe a place where someone lives. It is less emotional and doesn't convey a sense of warmth or belonging.
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| residence |
Used in formal and official contexts to refer to a place where someone lives. It is less emotional than 'home' but more commonly used than 'dwelling'.
|
| home |
Used in everyday language to refer to the place where one lives. It conveys warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging.
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| abode |
Often used in literary or poetic contexts. It can also be used in a formal or humorous way to describe someone's home.
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Examples of usage
- The old manor house was a beautiful dwelling surrounded by gardens.
- They decided to renovate the dwelling to make it more modern and comfortable.
- The homeless man was searching for a warm dwelling to spend the night.
- She invited us to her cozy dwelling for a cup of tea.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Quick facts about “dwelling”
Dwelling is a 1-syllable noun. It is pronounced /ˈdwɛɫɪŋ/ in American English and /dwˈɛlɪŋ/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning, 3 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #4,408 among the most common English words.
Did you know?
“dwelling” in architecture
- Traditional dwellings vary widely around the world, from igloos in the Arctic to mud-brick homes in hot deserts.
- In many cultures, dwellings often reflect environmental adaptations, using local materials for heating and cooling.
- Modern architectural trends include eco-dwellings, which are designed to be sustainable and minimize environmental impact.
“dwelling” in psychology
- The concept of one’s dwelling can affect mental well-being, as a comfortable home environment contributes to happiness.
- Research suggests that cluttered spaces can lead to anxiety, highlighting the emotional connection to one's dwelling.
- Personalizing a dwelling can foster a sense of identity and belonging, crucial for emotional health.
“dwelling” in pop culture
- Dwellings are often central themes in stories, from cozy hobbit holes in 'The Lord of the Rings' to mysterious mansions in horror movies.
- Television shows often explore different styles of dwellings, showcasing home makeovers and unique architecture.
- The term 'dwell' has been used in music and literature, often conveying themes of introspection and home.
“dwelling” in sociology
- Dwellings can play a key role in cultural identity, reflecting traditions, social norms, and community values.
- Urban dwellings have seen a rise in popularity due to migration and changing lifestyles, impacting city planning.
- Access to a stable dwelling is considered a basic human right, essential for security and community engagement.
Origin of 'dwelling'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'dwelling' comes from the Old English 'dwellan,' which means to linger or stay.
- Related words in other languages have similar roots, such as the German 'verweilen,' which also means to stay or remain.
- Over the centuries, the meaning has shifted from merely staying somewhere to specifically referring to a person's home.
The word 'dwelling' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old English word 'dwellan' meaning 'to tarry, stay, remain.' Over time, the term evolved to refer to a place of residence or habitation. The concept of dwellings has been an integral part of human history, reflecting the need for shelter and security.
Rhymes
Dwelling rhymes with outselling, selling, telling, swelling, compelling, spelling, yelling and smelling.