Boarder

A boarder is a person who pays for lodging and usually meals in a house, often a private residence, in exchange for a fee. They are typically not related to the property owner and establish a temporary living arrangement. The term implies a degree of shared living space and resources, differing from renters who usually have more self-contained living arrangements. Boarders often form part of a diverse and dynamic household, contributing to a rich social environment. The duration of a boarder's stay can vary, ranging from short-term to extended periods depending on individual needs and arrangements.

Boarder meaning with examples

• The elderly widow Mrs. Gable took in a boarder, a friendly young student named Alex, to supplement her income and provide some companionship. Alex helped with chores and brought a lively energy to the quiet house. He always cleaned up after himself and left her home as she had prepared it when he arrived. She saw him like a grandchild at times and was always delighted when he would tell her of his activities
• Finding affordable housing in the city proved challenging, so Sarah decided to become a boarder in a large Victorian house. The shared kitchen and living room required some adjustment. She often saw her fellow boarders, and the other guests there, but she made new friends, and eventually the close quarters created a comfortable and supportive community. The owner was friendly and well-organized, and she always felt safe.
• During college, John chose to be a boarder in a house close to campus, sharing a room with another student. This significantly reduced his living expenses. He found it an easy environment to get his coursework completed. The shared space fostered a sense of camaraderie among the students. However, the late-night noise from other boarders sometimes made it hard to sleep.
• After losing his job and home, Mark became a boarder at a local boarding house. The structured environment and communal meals offered much-needed stability during a difficult time. The other boarders were supportive, and it provided a temporary base while he sought new employment and housing options. It was his own personal refuge for an unspecified duration, during which time, he would recover.