Hoveling is a noun that refers to the act of occupying or staying in a place temporarily, often with minimal comfort or amenities. It typically describes a state of residing or settling in a space that is inadequate, cramped, or substandard, which may be out of necessity rather than choice.
The term "hoveling" can also be used metaphorically to describe a lifestyle or condition that is characterized by instability, impermanence, or a lack of resources. In such cases, it connotes a sense of transience, uncertainty, and constant movement.
Historically, the word "hoveling" had its origins in the Middle English word "hovel," which referred to a small, crude, and often dilapidated shelter or dwelling. Hoveling, then, implies the act of inhabiting or dwelling in such a hovel-like space.
Hoveling is often associated with living conditions in poverty, homelessness, or other adverse circumstances. It may involve living in temporary shelters, makeshift accommodations, or cramped quarters due to a lack of financial means or suitable housing options. The focus on minimal comfort, precariousness, and impermanence distinguishes hoveling from traditional forms of habitation, where individuals typically have access to more substantial and secure living arrangements.
