homelessness

American  

[hohm-lis-nis] / ˈhoʊm lɪs nɪs /

noun

1. lack of permanent housing, especially this condition generally as a matter of public concern.

   The city partners with community groups to offer resources for youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability.

2. lack of a feeling of belonging; rootlessness or restlessness.

   He writes about a feeling of homelessness after immigration, when he felt neither firmly bound to his native culture nor fully adapted to the new one.

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Sensitive Note

See homeless ( def. ).

Etymology

Origin of homelessness

First recorded in 1810–20; homeless ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Explanation

Homelessness is a situation in which people don't have a place to live. A family experiencing homelessness might need to temporarily stay in a city shelter or with a relative. Homelessness is a state of being without a home. The word usually describes the circumstances of people who have fallen on hard times and don't have the money or ability to acquire a safe, stable place to live. Homelessness is a widespread problem across the U.S., with causes that include poverty, addiction, domestic violence, low wages, and lack of affordable housing.

Example Sentences

It also removed exemptions for veterans, young adults who aged out of foster care, and people experiencing homelessness.

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2026

Getting laid off or falling ill can lead them quickly to fall into homelessness, “eventually getting ‘slain’ by society,” it added.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026

The same national study found that COVID-19 pandemic-era eviction protections appeared to blunt what could have been even steeper increases in homelessness.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

Even as Mayor Karen Bass’ signature homelessness initiative brings more people indoors, a growing number are winding up back on the street.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

She knew the feeling of being faced with homelessness.

From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack