Landlord
LAND-lord
/ˈlændlɔːrd/
A person who owns land or property and rents it to others.
The landlord is responsible for maintaining the property and adhering to the terms of the lease, while collecting rent from the tenant.
The story behind the word. The word 'landlord' is a straightforward combination of 'land' and 'lord'. The 'lord' part comes from the Old English 'hlaford', which originally meant 'keeper of the bread' or 'loaf-ward'. Over time, 'lord' evolved to mean a master or ruler. So, a 'landlord' is essentially the 'master' or 'owner' of the land or property, who grants its use to others.
Word relationships
- Owner: General term for someone who owns property, not necessarily renting it out.
- Lessor: Formal legal term for the party granting a lease.
- Tenant: The person who rents and occupies the property.
Word family
- landlady (noun): A female landlord.
Collocations
- residential landlord
- commercial landlord
- absentee landlord
- landlord-tenant dispute
- landlord's responsibilities
Example sentences
- "The landlord was legally obligated to ensure the rental property met all safety standards." The relationship between landlord and tenant is governed by law.
- "Our landlord was very responsive whenever we had an issue with the plumbing or heating." Landlords have various responsibilities.
Memory hook
The LANDLORD is the LORD of the LAND, owning the property. Lord of the Land
When not to use
Do not use 'landlord' for a property owner who does not rent out their property.
Fun facts
- The female equivalent, 'landlady', is also commonly used, especially for owners of smaller rental properties or pubs.
Explore more words
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