Definition: Residence, residential A house or place where a family lives. The term "residence" refers to a place one calls home while living in a house or apartment, whereas "residential" means an area for people to live together. The primary purpose of a residence is to provide a safe and comfortable environment for the occupants while ensuring that everyone feels welcome and protected from potential dangers such as natural disasters, theft, or violence. The term residential can also refer to someone who lives in a particular place or area, whether it's a townhouse in a neighborhood, an apartment complex, or even a country home. In terms of definition, "residential" refers to a place where people live together and are treated as family members; whereas "residence" is a specific type of residence that typically includes a single dwelling with living quarters for several people. Both terms describe the same concept but have different connotations.