Lodger Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lodger

[ˈlɒdʒər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

renting a room

A person who rents a room in someone else's house.

Synonyms

boarder, roomer, tenant.

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Word Description / Examples
lodger

Used mainly in British English to describe someone who rents a room in someone else's house. It implies a sense of sharing living spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens.

  • The lodger pays rent every month for the room in Mrs. Smith's house.
  • As a lodger, John had access to the kitchen and the living room.
tenant

A general term used for someone who rents an entire property (like an apartment or house) from a landlord. This term is more formal and implies a contractual relationship.

  • The tenant signed a one-year lease for the apartment.
  • The landlord checks in regularly to see if the tenants are maintaining the property.
boarder

Used to describe someone who receives regular meals in addition to lodging, usually in a private home or boarding house. This term is also often used for students who stay at a boarding school.

  • The boarder enjoyed three meals a day prepared by the host family.
  • At the boarding school, she was a boarder who stayed during the school term.
roomer

Commonly used in American English to describe someone who rents a room in another person's house. It suggests a more informal or short-term arrangement compared to 'tenant'.

  • The roomer moved in for the summer while interning at the company nearby.
  • As a roomer, she didn't have access to the entire house.

Examples of usage

  • The lodger pays rent to the homeowner.
  • Our lodger is a quiet and respectful person.
  • The lodger has his own key to the house.
  • The lodger shares the kitchen with the other tenants.
  • She decided to take in a lodger to help with the bills.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'lodger'

The word 'lodger' originated from the Old English word 'hlafward', which meant 'bread-keeper'. Over time, the term evolved to refer to someone who rents a room in another person's house. Lodgers have been a common feature of housing arrangements for centuries, providing both landlords with extra income and individuals with affordable accommodations. Today, lodgers continue to play a role in the housing market, offering a flexible living option for both parties involved.


See also: dislodge, lodging.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,403, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.