room
mate
Plural
roommates
1
a person sharing a room, apartment, or house with one or more people
- She met her roommate on the first day of college and they quickly became friends.
- Living with a roommate can help reduce the cost of rent.
- He and his roommate often cook dinner together in the shared kitchen.
- They had some disagreements at first, but now they are getting along well as roommates.
- Finding a compatible roommate is essential for a peaceful living environment.
2
a same-sex significant other with whom one lives
Roommate is a slang term historically used as a discreet reference to a same-sex romantic partner with whom one shares a home. The expression was common in periods and locations where openly acknowledging such relationships could lead to social, legal, or professional consequences. It served as a socially acceptable explanation for cohabitation, avoiding unwanted attention or suspicion. The term appears in personal accounts, historical records, and obituaries as a coded way to indicate a long-term partnership without explicitly stating its romantic nature.
- That roommate cooked breakfast for both of them every morning.
- Everyone joked about her new roommate being extra affectionate.
- A roommate can be more than just a coinhabitant; they're your partner.
- That roommate held hands with them while watching a movie at home.
- He captioned the photo: "My favorite roommate ever ❤️."