Household
UK /["/ˈhaʊshəʊld/"]/US /["/ˈhaʊshəʊld/"]/
Definition
all the people living together in a house or flat
In simple words: A group of people living together in a home.
Examples
- Everyone in the household contributes to the chores.
- The household was always filled with laughter and joy.
- We need to find ways to reduce our household expenses.
- The household includes both parents and their children.
- She manages the household with amazing efficiency.
Usage notes
Commonly used to refer to families or individuals sharing a living space. Avoid using in very formal or academic writing without clarification.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of a 'house full' of people that make a 'household'.
Collocations
- average
- domestic
- private
- maintain
- manage
- run
- appliance
- contents
- furniture
- the head of the household
Synonyms
- home
- family
- domestic group
- residence
- dwelling
Antonyms
- institution
- public space
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'house'—'household' refers to the people, whereas 'house' refers to the building.
- 'Household' is singular, don't use 'households' when referring to one group.
- Using 'household' as a verb, when it is only a noun.