Residency is a term that can refer to a variety of living situations. ABODE, HOUSE, HOME, DWELLING, DOMICILE, and HABITAT are all synonyms for residency, each with slightly different connotations. ABODE is a more general term, referring to any place where someone lives. HOUSE and HOME are often used interchangeably, but HOME typically implies a greater sense of comfort and security. DWELLING and DOMICILE both refer to a place of residence, but DOMICILE is more formal and implies a permanent residence. HABITAT is the most specific term, referring to an environment in which a person or animal lives.