RESIDENCE (Latin residere, to remain behind, to dwell, reside)  , in general, a place of abode . In law, it usually means continuance in a place . The ordinary meaning of the word has been defined as " the place where an individual eats, drinks and sleeps, or where his family or his servants eat, drink and sleep " (R. v . North Curry, 1825, 4 B . & C . 959) . For certain purposes, however, a man may be said to have his residence not only where he sleeps, but also at his place of business . See ABODE ; DOMICILE . In ecclesiastical law residence is the continuance of a spiritual person upon his benefice . As a general rule, it is necessary for every rector or vicar to reside within his parish, even though there may be no house of residence annexed to the benefice . But under certain circumstances the bishop of the diocese may grant a licence of non-residence (Pluralities Act 1838) .