dwelling

/ˈdwɛlɪŋ/
nounIntermediate a place where someone lives
formal

a house, apartment, or other place where someone lives

The real estate agent showed them several potential dwellings in the neighborhood.

The agent displayed multiple available homes for the clients to consider.

💡

Often used in formal or legal contexts to describe a residence.

Collocations

dwelling placea specific location where someone livespermanent dwellinga long-term residence

Related Phrases

dwelling unitphrase
a single living space within a larger building
dwelling housephrase
a house designed for residential use

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

'Dwelling' is more formal than 'home' and is often used in legal, real estate, or descriptive contexts.

Gold Rule

Legal Context

In legal documents, 'dwelling' may refer to a residence with specific rights or protections.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'dwellen' (to delay, linger), from Old English 'dwellan' (to remain). The noun form emerged in the 14th century to describe a place of habitation.

📝Usage Notes

In legal contexts, 'dwelling' often refers to a residence in a formal or official capacity, such as in property deeds or zoning laws.

Word Breakdown

dwell
to live or reside
root
+
-ing
noun form derived from a verb
suffix
English Dictionary