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. )

Example Sentences

Researchers found that families often avoid telling school officials that they’re experiencing homelessness due to stigma and fears of child welfare or immigration enforcement.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Latino and Black students also were more likely to experience homelessness in Los Angeles County, according to researchers.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

When Lurie announced plans to accelerate the city’s homelessness response with transitional housing and treatment beds, he name-checked the Schwabs.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

He has since leaned on donors to address homelessness and economic development.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Prison spared Trina the uncertainty of homelessness but presented new dangers and challenges.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson