What does homestead mean Meaning and Definition
What does homestead mean
Pronunciation
/ˈhōmˌstɛd/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A house and surrounding land, especially in a rural area, that is owned and occupied by the family that lives there.
Examples
- The family has lived on their homestead for generations.
- The couple built their homestead on a plot of land they inherited from their grandparents.
Synonyms
- Farmhouse
- Estate
Antonyms
- Tenant
- Renter
Additional Information
A homestead often connotes a sense of self-sufficiency and independence, as the family that lives there may grow their own food, raise livestock, and manage their own property. Homesteading can also refer to the act of establishing and maintaining a homestead.
In the United States, the Homestead Act of 1862 allowed settlers to stake a claim on up to 160 acres of public land, which they could then develop and maintain as their own homestead.
Etymology
The word “homestead” comes from the Old English words “hām” meaning “home” and “stēad” meaning “place” or “stead”.
Usage Notes
When referring to a specific property, “homestead” is often used as a noun. For example, “Our homestead has been in the family for generations.” When referring to the act of establishing and maintaining a homestead, “homestead” can be used as a verb. For example, “They homesteaded on a plot of land in the countryside.”
Cultural References
The concept of homesteading has been romanticized in literature and film, often depicting a idyllic and self-sufficient way of life. Examples include the Little House on the Prairie series and the film The Waltons.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Homesteading on a plot of land
Related Words or Phrases
- Self-sufficiency
- Country living
Collocations
- Homestead land
- Family homestead
Frequency of Use
The word “homestead” is not commonly used in modern language, but it is still widely recognized and understood.