résidence

Résidence, in its most general sense, refers to a place where someone lives. This can encompass a wide range of dwellings, from a permanent home to a temporary abode. The term can denote a primary residence, which is the dwelling a person occupies for the majority of the time, or a secondary residence, which is a dwelling used for recreational purposes or for a portion of the year, such as a vacation home.

In legal and administrative contexts, a résidence often carries specific implications related to domicile, taxation, and citizenship. For example, tax residency determines which country's tax laws apply to an individual or entity. Similarly, establishing legal residency in a country is often a prerequisite for obtaining long-term visas or citizenship.

The concept of résidence is also used in academic and artistic circles. An artist in residence or a scholar in residence is an individual who is invited to work at an institution for a specific period, often engaging in research, teaching, or creative projects. These residencies provide opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and the development of new work.

The word itself originates from the French word "résider," meaning "to reside" or "to dwell." It conveys a sense of permanence, habitation, and belonging to a particular place. The specific meaning and implications of résidence can therefore vary significantly depending on the context in which it is used.