'doss-house' originates from British slang, where 'doss' meant 'to sleep' and 'house' referred to a building or place.

'doss' was used in the 19th century to describe sleeping rough or in makeshift accommodations, and 'doss-house' became a term for cheap lodging.

Initially, it meant 'a place to sleep,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a cheap lodging house.'