Homeless

UK /["/ˈhəʊmləs/"]/US /["/ˈhəʊmləs/"]/

Definition

having no home, and therefore typically living on the streets

In simple words: People who do not have a home.

Examples

The scheme has been set up to help homeless people.
The local authority ruled that he had made himself intentionally homeless and was therefore not entitled to be rehoused.
Three hundred people were left homeless by the earthquake.
helping the homeless

Usage notes

Use 'homeless' to describe someone without a permanent place to live. Be sensitive when discussing this issue, as it can be a difficult topic. Avoid using it in informal or derogatory contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'home less' — imagine someone who has less than a home.

Collocations

be
become
end up
intentionally
unintentionally
chronically

Synonyms

unhoused
displaced
roofless
vagrant

Antonyms

housed
domiciled

Common mistakes

'Homeless' is sometimes incorrectly used as a noun instead of an adjective.
Confusing 'homeless' with related terms like 'houseless'.
Assuming all homeless people choose to be without homes.