Definition

A type of house where people can rent a room and also receive meals.

Example

During college, I lived in a boardinghouse that provided breakfast and dinner.

Conversation

Have you ever stayed at a boardinghouse?

Yeah, I did once during a trip. It was interesting!

What was it like to live in a boardinghouse?

It was cozy, and the meals were homemade, which was nice.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Boardinghouse → It is formed from "boarding" (from the verb "board" meaning to provide meals and lodging, derived from Old English "bord" meaning table or food) and "house" (from Old English "hus" meaning dwelling or shelter). A boardinghouse is a place that provides meals and lodging, typically for travelers or workers.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'table' ('bord') where meals are served and a 'shelter' ('hus') where people stay — that's what a boardinghouse offers.

Visually Confused Words