renter

UK: ˈrɛntə | US: ˈrɛntər

Definition
  1. n. a person who pays rent to use or occupy land, property, or other assets owned by another.

  2. n. (historical) a person who collects rent, especially for a landlord.

Structure
rent <to pay for temporary use>er <agent noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "renter" derives from the verb "rent," which originates from Old French renter (to yield income), itself from Late Latin rendita (revenue). The suffix "-er" (from Old English -ere) denotes an agent performing the action. Originally, "renter" could refer to either the payer or collector of rent, but modern usage primarily associates it with tenants. The morpheme "rent" preserves its core meaning of temporary payment, while "-er" clarifies the human role.

Examples
  1. The renter signed a one-year lease for the apartment.

  2. As a long-term renter, she negotiated lower monthly payments.

  3. The landlord evicted the renter for violating the contract.

  4. He works as a property manager but also owns a home as a renter.

  5. The rights of the renter are protected under state law.