house

house · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A building for human habitation, especially one that consists of a ground floor and one or more upper stories.

  2. 2.

    A building used for a particular purpose.

  3. 3.

    A family or dynasty, especially a noble or royal one.

  4. 4.

    [politics]A legislative or deliberative assembly.

  5. 5.

    [business]A business or institution.

Forms

plural: houses

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    on the house — Free of charge (especially drinks).
  • •
    bring the house down — Cause great laughter or applause.
  • •
    get on like a house on fire — Get along very well.
  • •
    put your house in order — Organize your affairs properly.
  • •
    a house of cards — An unstable structure or plan.
  • •
    safe as houses — Completely safe.

Related words

See also: apartment, building, family, home, room
Synonyms: abode, dwelling, home, residence

Etymology

From Old English hūs ("house, dwelling, shelter"), from Proto-Germanic hūsą, of uncertain ultimate origin. Cognate with German Haus, Dutch huis, and Old Norse hús.