Meaning & Definition of word "Tenant"

Tenant

/ˈtɛnənt/

noun:

  • 1. A person who occupies land or property rented from a landlord.
    • Example: The tenant signed a lease agreement for the apartment.
  • 2. A person who holds a tenancy, typically under a formal agreement with a landlord.
    • Example: As a long-term tenant, she had the right to renew her lease.
  • 3. One that occupies a position or place, especially in relation to property.
    • Example: The building has several tenants, each running their own businesses.
  • 4. In legal terms, a person who has the temporary use of property owned by another under a lease.
    • Example: The tenant is entitled to quiet enjoyment of the premises as per the lease agreement.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Old French 'tenant', from 'tenir' meaning 'to hold'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

tenant rights:

Legal entitlements of tenants regarding their rented property.

tenant lease:

A contract stipulating the terms under which a tenant occupies a property.

tenant screening:

The process of evaluating a rental applicant's qualifications.

Related Words

landlord:

A person who rents property to a tenant.

lease:

A legal agreement outlining rental terms between landlord and tenant.

eviction:

The legal process of removing a tenant from rental property.

Slang Meanings of tenant

Meaning: Renting a space long-term.

Example Sentence: He's been a tenant for years, but he's thinking of buying a house.

Meaning: Living in a place without ownership.

Example Sentence: She's just a tenant; she doesn't have to worry about maintenance.