# homelessness

/ˈhoʊmɫəsnəs/ (US) · /hˈəʊmləsnəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/homelessness
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the state of not having a permanent place to live. It is a serious social problem where people live on the streets or in temporary shelters.

For teachers: the condition of lacking stable, safe, and adequate housing. Often used in sociological contexts to describe the systemic lack of residential security.

## Examples

- The city is trying to reduce homelessness by building more shelters.
- Local charities provide food and medical care to people experiencing homelessness during the winter months.
- Addressing chronic homelessness requires a multifaceted approach that combines immediate emergency housing with long-term mental health support and vocational training programs.

## Usage notes

- Often appears as the object of the verb 'experience' or 'address' rather than 'have'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.