houseparent

[ hous-pair-uhnt, -par- ]

noun

1. one of a married couple responsible for a group of young people, as students, living in a dormitory, hostel, etc., sometimes acting solely as an advisor, but often serving as host or hostess, chaperon, housekeeper, etc.
2. a housemother or housefather.

Word History and Origins

Origin of houseparent¹

First recorded in 1950–55; house + parent

Example Sentences

Frank speaks his answers and the houseparent writes them down for him.

From New York Times

A houseparent at an Ohio school pleaded guilty to sexual battery against a 13-year-old boy.

From Salon

A houseparent at an Ohio school pleaded guilty to sexual battery against a 13-year-old boy.

From Washington Times

Fies had been a houseparent at the Milton Hershey School, located about 13 miles east of Harrisburg.

From Washington Times

The salary for the houseparent job - $5,400 a year for each person - is a deal-breaker for many.

From Washington Times