lodge

A lodge is a term with several related meanings in English. It commonly refers to a small house or cabin used for temporary or seasonal living, often in a rural, forested, or mountainous setting. Lodges may function as standalone dwellings or as part of a larger resort or hotel complex. They are typically designed for shelter and comfort rather than permanent residence, and may emphasize rustic or natural materials.

In a different context, a lodge denotes a local assembly of a organization, most notably a Masonic lodge. A Masonic lodge is a jurisdictional unit where members meet regularly to conduct ceremonies, conduct business, and engage in fellowship. Lodges may own or rent a dedicated building and are identified by a name or number assigned by their grand lodge.

As a verb, lodge has several senses. To lodge something means for it to become embedded, stuck, or settled in a place, such as a splinter lodging in skin or debris lodging in a passage. It can also mean to provide temporary shelter, as in lodging travelers or workers. Additionally, to lodge a complaint or claim is to formally submit it to the appropriate authority.

Common compound uses describe specific types of dwellings, such as hunting lodges, ski lodges, or wildlife lodges. The term thus covers both physical buildings used for shelter and social or organizational units that meet in designated spaces.