Meaning & Definition of word "Hovel"
to
Hovel
/ˈhɒv.əl/
noun:
- 1. A small, simple, and often poorly constructed dwelling.
- Example: After the storm, they found themselves living in a hovel, barely protecting them from the elements.
- 2. A miserable or disheveled place.
- Example: The abandoned hovel at the edge of the village was once a lively home filled with laughter.
- 3. A shelter that offers minimal comfort or amenities.
- Example: He refused to spend another night in that dingy hovel, opting instead to camp under the stars.
Etymology
Middle English 'hovel', probably from Old English 'hūfel', diminutive of 'hū' (house).
Common Phrases and Expressions
hovel of a house:
A very poor or unpleasant house.
live in a hovel:
To live in very poor or inadequate living conditions.
make a hovel:
To convert a space into a very simple or poorly constructed dwelling.
Related Words
shanty:
A crudely built shelter.
hut:
A small, simple building or shelter.
dirt:
Soil or earth that is often associated with poor living conditions.
Slang Meanings of hovel
Meaning: A rundown apartment or house.
Example Sentence: After college, all I could afford was a hovel in the slums.
Meaning: A place that is not well-kept.
Example Sentence: That place is a hovel; they never clean up.