Definition of the word homeless

The word "homeless" has its roots in 15th-century England. During the Middle Ages, the term "homeless" referred to anyone who was without a fixed abode or was wandering, often because they were destitute or vagrant. The word came from the Old English words "hām" meaning "home" and "lēs" meaning "without." In the 16th century, the term "homeless" began to take on a more sympathetic connotation, referring to those who were forced to live on the streets due to poverty, war, or other disasters. The word gained popularity in the 19th century with the rise of urbanization and industrialization, which led to increased homelessness due to evictions, economic downturns, and social inequality. Today, the term "homeless" is widely used to describe individuals or families who lack a permanent or stable place to live, often due to systemic issues such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, or mental illness.