houseparent

[ hous-pair-uhnt, -par- ]

noun

1. one of a married couple responsible for a group of young people, as students, living in a dormitory, hostel, etc., sometimes acting solely as an advisor, but often serving as host or hostess, chaperon, housekeeper, etc.
2. a housemother or housefather.

Word History and Origins

Origin of houseparent¹

First recorded in 1950–55; house + parent

Example Sentences

Bost said he wasn’t a troublemaker so much as hapless, failing to make his bed or do chores as thoroughly as his houseparents wanted.

From ProPublica

Students live in group homes of eight to 12, cared for by MHS staff known as “houseparents,” who, under school rules, must be married couples.

From ProPublica