Tenant
TEN-uhnt
/ˈtɛnənt/
A person who occupies land or property rented from a landlord.
The tenant has rights and responsibilities outlined in a lease or rental agreement, including paying rent and maintaining the property.
The story behind the word. The word 'tenant' comes from the Old French 'tenant', which itself is derived from the Latin verb 'tenere', meaning 'to hold'. A tenant is literally someone who 'holds' or occupies property, typically under a lease or rental agreement. This ancient root reminds us that the core idea is about holding possession.
Word relationships
- Renter: More common and informal term, often interchangeable with 'tenant'.
- Lessee: Formal legal term for the party holding a lease.
- Occupant: Broader term for anyone occupying a space, not necessarily renting it.
- Landlord: The owner who rents out the property.
Word family
- tenancy (noun): The occupation or possession of land or property as a tenant.
Collocations
- residential tenant
- commercial tenant
- good tenant
- bad tenant
- tenant rights
Example sentences
- "The tenant reported a leaky faucet, expecting the landlord to arrange for repairs." The landlord and tenant have specific responsibilities.
- "After several interviews, the landlord finally found a responsible tenant for the vacant apartment." Finding good tenants is important for landlords.
Memory hook
A TENANT has the right to TENURE (hold) the property for a period. Holds property
When not to use
Do not use 'tenant' for someone who owns their home; they are an 'owner' or 'homeowner'.
Fun facts
- The word 'lieutenant' also shares the 'tenere' root, meaning 'place-holder' or 'one who holds the place' of a superior.
Explore more words
tenure, easement, lend, delegate, gentrification, occupation
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