Legal Definitions - dwell

To "dwell" primarily means to reside or live in a particular place, either permanently or for a significant period. In a legal context, this concept of habitation is fundamental to terms like "dwelling" or a "dwelling defense."

Dwell

To "dwell" refers to either residing in a particular place for a period of time, or to focusing one's thoughts or attention on a specific idea, topic, or detail for an extended duration.

• Example 1 (Physical Residence): A family decided to dwell in a historic farmhouse for two years while their new home was being constructed, experiencing rural life before moving back to the city.

  Explanation: This illustrates "to dwell" in the sense of living or residing in a specific physical location for a temporary but significant period.

• Example 2 (Mental Focus): During the jury's deliberations, several members continued to dwell on the inconsistencies in the witness's testimony, making it difficult to reach a unanimous verdict quickly.

  Explanation: Here, "to dwell" signifies that the jury members were lingering on or giving prolonged attention to a particular piece of information, rather than moving past it or dismissing it.