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

Prince William has a project to tackle homelessness, Homewards, and there are plans for the duchy to provide an extra 12,000 homes by 2040.

From BBC • May 18, 2026

Miller, through his nonprofit Better Angels, spent years working on the Eastside to address the homelessness crisis.

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2026

Voters quoted in the piece consistently say they are searching for candidates with detailed, credible plans on affordability, homelessness, and mental health rather than simply a strong brand or online presence.

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2026

That means creating 12,000 homes, including a project to tackle homelessness.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

She knew the feeling of being faced with homelessness.

From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack