halfway house
/ˈhæfˌweɪ haʊs/
NOUN
1. A temporary residence for people transitioning back into society
A supervised residential facility that provides temporary accommodation and support for people leaving prison, recovering from substance addiction, or transitioning from institutional care to independent living.
1.1. Reintegration after incarceration
A supervised residence where people released from prison or serving the final part of a sentence receive support and guidance while adjusting to life in the community.
Synonyms
- transitional residence
- residential reentry center
- reentry facility
- transition house
Antonyms
- prison
- jail
- correctional institution
- penitentiary
Examples
- After his release, he spent six months in a halfway house before returning to independent living.
- The halfway house helps former prisoners find employment and rebuild their lives.
Related Words
- parole
- probation
- reintegration
- rehabilitation
- supervised release
- correctional facility
1.2. Recovery from addiction
A structured residential environment where people recovering from substance addiction receive support, counseling, and assistance in maintaining sobriety while gradually returning to everyday life.
Synonyms
- sober living home
- recovery residence
- transitional living facility
- rehabilitation residence
- recovery house
Examples
- After completing residential treatment, she moved into a halfway house to continue her recovery.
- The halfway house provides a supportive environment for residents learning to live without alcohol or drugs.
Related Words
- rehabilitation center
- detoxification facility
- addiction treatment
- support group
- sobriety
- aftercare
NOUN
2. An inn or stopping place midway on a journey
An inn or place where travelers can stop and rest at an intermediate point along a journey.
2.1. Accommodation for travelers
An inn or resting place situated between the starting point and destination of a journey, where travelers can pause before continuing.
Synonyms
- inn
- stopping place
- wayside inn
- roadside inn
- rest stop
Examples
- The travelers spent the night at a halfway house before continuing their journey.
- In earlier times, a halfway house offered food and shelter to people traveling long distances.