DOSS HOUSE Meaning and
Definition
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A doss house is a term used to refer to a cheap or run-down lodging house or hostel where people, typically men, stay temporarily. The term "doss" originated from the Scottish word "doss," meaning "to sleep" or "lodging." Doss houses became prevalent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in urban areas with high levels of transient or marginalized populations.
These establishments typically provide minimal or basic amenities, catering primarily to individuals who are either homeless, penniless, or in desperate need of temporary accommodation. Doss houses are often characterized by their overcrowded and squalid conditions, as they aim to provide the bare minimum accommodation at incredibly low prices.
In a doss house, rooms or beds are often rented out by the night or even by the hour, making them particularly attractive to those who cannot afford more permanent housing options. Due to their affordability and availability, doss houses generally attract a diverse mix of people, including migrant workers, discharged soldiers, itinerant laborers, and others facing various hardships.
Despite their shortcomings, doss houses have historically served as a crucial safety net for those in dire living situations, offering a temporary shelter where individuals can rest, find companionship, and escape the streets. However, the conditions within doss houses are generally unregulated, making them susceptible to the spread of disease, crime, and exploitation. Over time, societal and governmental shifts have sought to improve the living conditions of such establishments, although variations of doss houses may still exist in some regions to this day.
Common Misspellings for DOSS HOUSE
- soss house
- xoss house
- coss house
- foss house
- ross house
- eoss house
- diss house
- dkss house
- dlss house
- dpss house
- d0ss house
- d9ss house
- doas house
- dozs house
- doxs house
- dods house
- does house
- dows house
- dosa house
- dosz house
Etymology of DOSS HOUSE
The word "doss house" is believed to have originated from the British slang term "doss", which dates back to the 18th century. "Doss" was used to refer to a makeshift bed or a place where one could sleep temporarily, often under unfavorable conditions. It is derived from the Romani language, where "dosh" means "a share" or "a portion". The Romani people, also known as gypsies, were known to travel and live in temporary accommodations, and their influence on British slang likely contributed to the adoption of "doss" as a term for an improvised sleeping place.
The term "doss house" specifically emerged in the late 19th century and referred to establishments that provided cheap and basic accommodation to working-class individuals, often in crowded communal spaces. These places were typically utilized by people who were homeless, transient, or unable to afford better lodging options.
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