Homelessness
ˈhoʊmləsnəs
Definitions
The state or condition of having no home and, typically, living on the streets.
ˈhoʊmləsnəs
The state of having no home
The city is struggling with rising levels of homelessness.
💡 Simply: Homelessness is when someone doesn't have a house or place to live. It's like not having a bed to sleep in or a safe place to be. Sometimes people become homeless because they lose their jobs or can't afford a place to live.
👶 For kids: When someone doesn't have a house to live in, that's homelessness.
More Examples
Organizations are working to provide shelter and support for people experiencing homelessness.
Lack of affordable housing is a significant contributor to homelessness.
How It's Used
"Homelessness is a complex social issue with various contributing factors."
"The government implemented new programs to address the growing problem of homelessness."
"Numerous charities are dedicated to helping those affected by homelessness."
Idioms & expressions
at risk of homelessness
To be in a situation that makes it likely that you will become homeless.
"Many families are at risk of homelessness due to rising rent costs."
chronic homelessness
A state of homelessness that lasts for an extended period and often involves other challenges such as mental health or addiction.
"Addressing chronic homelessness requires providing permanent supportive housing."
housing first
An approach to addressing homelessness that focuses on providing immediate housing, then support services.
"The city has adopted a housing first approach to combat homelessness."
From 'homeless' + '-ness'. 'Homeless' comes from 'home' and 'less', indicating a lack of a home. The suffix '-ness' turns the adjective 'homeless' into a noun representing the state of being without a home. The term has gained prominence with increased awareness of social issues and poverty.
The term 'homelessness' began to gain traction in the late 20th century as an increasing social problem and the term became widely used to denote a lack of residence or housing.
Memory tip
Imagine a house with a missing 'home'. Homelessness is the absence of that essential structure.