Meaning & Definition of word "Tenement"
to
Tenement
/ˈtɛnə.mənt/
noun:
- 1. A multi-unit residential building, often with cramped living conditions.
- Example: She lived in a small tenement in the heart of the city, surrounded by other families.
- 2. An apartment or group of rooms forming one residence, usually rented.
- Example: After moving to the city, he found a cozy tenement that fit his budget.
- 3. A property or holding, especially in terms of legal rights.
- Example: The old tenement had been under the same family's ownership for generations.
Etymology
From Middle English 'tenement', from Old French 'tenement' meaning 'a holding', from Latin 'tenementum', meaning 'that which is held'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
tenement housing:
Housing provided in larger buildings, typically consisting of multiple rental units.
tenement walls:
The walls of a tenement building, often associated with close proximity of tenants.
Related Words
tenant:
A person who occupies land or property rented from a landlord.
landlord:
A person who owns property and rents it out to tenants.
Slang Meanings of tenement
Meaning: Slum dwelling
Example Sentence: He grew up in a tenement, which he often called a slum dwelling.
Meaning: Rundown apartment
Example Sentence: After college, she moved into a tenement, often referring to it as a rundown apartment.