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

"In particular, pressures in services that councils have strict legal obligations to provide, such as adults' and children's social care, special educational needs and disabilities and homelessness are continuing to grow," he said.

From BBC

He added the island was "not looking after its own citizens enough", pointing to rising use of food banks and homelessness.

From BBC

Bass’ campaign has pointed to declining homelessness and crime as among the successes of her first term as mayor.

From Los Angeles Times

“They faced homelessness and near suicidal depression before finding a path that took them through gender transition to a place of real identity, marriage, family and success as a scientist.”

From Los Angeles Times

Lambert previously shared some words of encouragement to “American Idol” contestants after she lifted herself out of poverty and homelessness and rose to stardom while residing in a $3.5 million mansion.

From MarketWatch