houseguest: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumNeutral to Formal
Quick answer
What does “houseguest” mean?
A person who is invited to stay at someone's home for a period of time.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who is invited to stay at someone's home for a period of time.
This term emphasizes the guest's temporary status and the hospitality context. It implies a formal or semi-formal invitation, distinguishing it from a casual visitor or lodger. In extended use, it can metaphorically describe any temporary resident or user of a space.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both 'houseguest' (predominantly American) and 'house guest' (more common in British English as two words) are used, though the concept is universal. 'Houseguest' as a single word is increasingly understood in the UK due to American media.
Connotations
No significant difference in connotation. In both varieties, it suggests a certain level of formality and obligation.
Frequency
Slightly more common in American English; British English might occasionally use more specific terms like 'weekend guest' or simply 'guest' where context is clear.
Grammar
How to Use “houseguest” in a Sentence
have a housegueststay as a houseguestact as houseguest to someonetreat someone like a houseguestVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Could appear in contexts of corporate hospitality or relocation services.
Academic
Used in sociological or anthropological studies of kinship, hospitality, and social networks.
Everyday
Common in social planning and conversation about visitors.
Technical
Not applicable.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “houseguest”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “houseguest”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “houseguest”
- Confusing 'houseguest' with 'housemate' (a permanent co-resident).
- Using it for someone staying in a hotel (use 'hotel guest').
- Misspelling as two words (house guest) is acceptable, but consistency is key.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A 'guest' is a broader term for anyone receiving hospitality. A 'houseguest' specifically stays overnight in the host's home.
No, 'houseguest' is only a noun. You 'host' or 'have' a houseguest; you don't 'houseguest' somewhere.
Not at all. It's a neutral, descriptive term. However, for very close family or friends staying long-term, terms like 'staying with us' might feel more personal.
The host or the homeowner. In terms of role, the antonym is 'host'.
A person who is invited to stay at someone's home for a period of time.
Houseguest is usually neutral to formal in register.
Houseguest: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhaʊsɡɛst/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhaʊsˌɡɛst/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Houseguests and fish smell after three days. (Proverb about the ideal length of a visit)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a HOUSE where a GUEST is staying. The word combines the two main elements.
Conceptual Metaphor
HOME IS A CONTAINER FOR SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS; HOSPITALITY IS A GIFT.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the BEST synonym for 'houseguest' in the sentence: 'We're preparing the spare room for our houseguest.'?