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a person sharing a room, apartment, or house with one or more people
American
a same-sex significant other with whom one lives
What is the origin and meaning of the word "roommate"?
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.
