Flophouse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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flophouse
[ˈflɒpˌhaʊs ]
Definition
type of lodging
A flophouse is a cheap hotel or lodging house, typically offering minimal amenities and catering to people with low income or those in need of temporary accommodation. These establishments are often characterized by shared rooms, limited privacy, and a generally rundown environment.
Synonyms
boarding house, cheap hotel, doss house.
Examples of usage
- After losing his job, he found refuge in a local flophouse.
- Many transient workers stay at flophouses when they arrive in the city.
- The flophouse was known for its cramped conditions and noisy residents.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Impact
- In literature and films, flophouses often depict the struggles of marginalized individuals, emphasizing poverty and survival in urban settings.
- The term has been used in various songs and artworks to symbolize the transient lifestyle and the plight of the down and out.
Psychology
- Studies show that living in low-cost or unstable housing like flophouses can affect mental health, leading to stress and anxiety.
- Transience associated with flophouses can lead to feelings of instability and impact personal relationships.
History
- During the Great Depression, flophouses became more common as many people lost their homes and sought affordable shelter.
- The rise of flophouses highlighted the economic struggles of the time, with numerous people seeking refuge in such places.
Modern Times
- Today, flophouses can still be found in many large cities, although they are often replaced by hostels or other budget lodgings that offer more amenities.
- The concept has evolved, and some modern versions aim to provide community and support for those experiencing homelessness.
Origin of 'flophouse'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'flophouse' originated in the early 20th century in America, combining 'flop' meaning to fall or drop down and 'house' for a place.
- It first appeared in print around 1910 and was associated with transient lodging for those who needed a place to rest temporarily.
The term 'flophouse' dates back to the early 20th century in the United States, deriving from the word 'flop,' which means to fall or drop down. It reflects the idea of a place where individuals, often in desperate circumstances, might 'flop' down to sleep without much thought to comfort or privacy. While flophouses were most common in urban areas during the Great Depression, the concept of inexpensive and often run-down lodging has persisted. Over the years, flophouses have been associated with transient populations, including the homeless and laborers. The term gained popularity in literary and cultural references, painting a vivid image of the struggles faced by those living on the margins of society.