Dwellable

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. A space suitable for residing in, often characterized by necessary amenities and comforts for living
2. An area designed for habitation that meets basic living standards
3. Referring to locations or structures where people can establish their homes and lead their daily lives

Etymology: "Dwellable" is a straightforward formation: the verb "dwell" with the suffix "-able," which marks something that can be done to or is fit for the action named by the base. So a dwellable place is one fit for living in. The base verb has its own history that makes the suffix's job easier to see. "Dwell" comes from Old English "dwellan," meaning to lead astray or hinder, a sense that survives in the archaic "dwale" and in the sense of lingering over something. Its meaning shifted over time toward staying in one place, and by the time "-able" was attached, "dwell" already meant to reside.

Synonyms: habitable, livable, inhabitable, occupiable, usable

Antonyms: uninhabitable, unlivable, unusable, unsuitable, impractical