Bunkmates

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Two individuals sharing a sleeping area or bed space, often in a communal living arrangement
2. room occupants who have a shared experience of living together in close quarters
3. a pair or group living together in a space that typically includes dormitory-style accommodations

Etymology: "Mate" came into English from Middle Low German, where "gemate" meant a companion with whom one shared food. The sense of sharing a meal survives in older compounds like "messmate," which is why the second half of this word has a built-in idea of shared daily life. The first half, "bunk," is less certain. It is generally linked to enclosed sleeping berths on ships and in cabins, and possibly to "bunker," a box-like seat, though the exact connection is not firmly established. Together, a bunkmate is someone who shares your sleeping quarters.

Synonyms: roommates, housemates