house-raising

[ hous-rey-zing ]

noun

1. a gathering of persons in a rural community to help one of its members build a house.

Word History and Origins

Origin of house-raising¹

An Americanism dating back to 1695–1705

Example Sentences

Every few weeks another clearing was made in the forest, and the neighbors gathered for a "house raising" to help put up a cabin.

From Project Gutenberg

The next day ushered in a crisis in the affairs of the would-be stationers—the house-raising began.

From Project Gutenberg

There is no hot-house raising in this world which will keep off that blast.

From Project Gutenberg

Jack talked on quietly about the house raising until he saw that his sister had recovered her composure.

From Project Gutenberg

At the house-raising a good dinner was provided, and of course, plenty of liquor.

From Project Gutenberg