What does homebody mean?
A homebody is someone who prefers the comfort and familiarity of home to going out, travelling, or joining an active social life. The term is informal and is often used affectionately, though it can also suggest a lack of interest in outside activities. It does not necessarily mean that someone is shy, antisocial, or never leaves the house; it more often identifies a recurring preference for domestic leisure. Homebody can refer to anyone, although the word is especially common in casual descriptions of personalities and lifestyles. In literature, it may be used to evoke a peaceful, settled character or, less warmly, a person viewed as somewhat dull. The expression is also useful in contrast with more adventurous people who seek travel, novelty, and frequent social engagement. Though primarily descriptive, its affectionate or dismissive tone depends heavily on the speaker's attitude and the surrounding context.
nounA person who prefers to spend their leisure time at home rather than participate in social, outdoor, or travel activities.
- A person who enjoys or prefers staying at home, especially in preference to going out, travelling, or participating in an active social life.
"Her parents are homebodies who rarely go out in the evening."
"He is a homebody who would rather cook dinner than meet friends downtown."
"The novel portrays her aunt as an affectionate homebody surrounded by books and family photographs."
The regular plural is “homebodies.” The word is informal.
"Several of her friends are homebodies who prefer quiet evenings at home."
A homebody is literally a “body” that stays “home.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does homebody come from?
Homebody is an English compound formed from home and body. Home derives from Old English hām, meaning “dwelling” or “home,” while body comes from Old English bodig, originally referring to a corpse or physical body. The modern sense of homebody developed during the 20th century as a humorous label for a person inclined to remain at home.
Related word forms
How homebody is actually used
The term is informal and can be affectionate or mildly critical, depending on context. It usually describes a personal preference rather than suggesting that someone is incapable of leaving home.