homesick - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
homesick Word Meanings
- feeling sad about being away from home
- longing for one's home or family
- emotionally troubled by separation from home
homesick Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
homesick Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhəʊm.sɪk/
US
/ˈhoʊm.sɪk/
homesick Word Etymology
1. Root decomposition: home + sick. 2. Historical origin: Old English 'ham' + 'sicc' (sick) eventually leading to Modern English 'homesick'. 3. Memory image: Picture a traveler in a distant land, longing for the warmth of their family and the comfort of their own bed, feeling unwell because of that yearning.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Homesick describes the sadness or discomfort you feel when you are away from home for a period. It involves longing for family, familiar routines, and the comfort of your own bed, rather than a physical illness. The feeling can be stronger in new places, during holidays, or after long separations. The word blends home and sick, signaling that the ache is emotional. Common constructions include I am homesick, I feel homesick, or I was homesick last year.
Usage Reminders
- I am homesick
- I feel homesick
- I was homesick last year
- It describes longing for home or family, not a place you left behind
- Use with be, feel, or get: I am homesick, I feel homesick, I got homesick after the move
Common Misconceptions
- Homesick is about physical illness; it is emotional.
- It only happens when traveling abroad; you can feel homesick anywhere.
- It means you miss a place, not your family or home life.
- It disappears quickly; it always passes soon.
- It shows you are weak; feeling homesick is normal.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, homesick centers on emotional longing for home and family, with common collocations like feel homesick or be homesick. Some learners mistakenly treat it as a health issue or as nostalgia for a place rather than home life. Emphasize that it’s an adjective used with be/feel/get and often tied to moving, studying abroad, or holidays.
Learning Tips
- Keep a small diary of times you felt homesick and what helped you feel better
- Compare I am homesick with I feel homesick to see nuance
- Practice 2-3 sentences about moving, holidays, or studying abroad
- Note collocations like very homesick or terribly homesick
- Watch conversations about travel or relocation to hear natural usage
- Avoid treating it as a disease; emphasize emotion
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'homesick'?
A.Excited about traveling
B.Feeling sad because of being away from home
C.Having difficulty sleeping
D.Feeling hungry
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of the word 'homesick' in a sentence.
A.After a long day at work, I felt homesick about my favorite TV show.
B.She felt homesick for her home while studying abroad.
C.He was so homesick that he couldn't eat dinner.
D.The weather was homesick on the weekend.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'homesick'?
A.Joyful
B.Nostalgic
C.Confident
D.Excited
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'homesick'?
A.Happy
B.Content
C.Excited
D.Adventurous
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might feel homesick?
A.During her travels, she realized how much she missed her family and friends.
B.After receiving a promotion, she celebrated by going out with friends.
C.He enjoys exploring new cities and meeting locals.
D.She felt proud of her accomplishments in a new city.
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