Definition of hostels:
(n) :
A commercial overnight lodging place, with dormitory accommodation and shared facilities, especially a youth hostel.
(n) :
(South Africa, South Asia) A university or school dormitory, a place of accommodation for students.
(n) :
(not US) A temporary refuge for the homeless providing a bed and sometimes food.
(v) :
(intransitive) To stay in a hostel during one's travels.
(v) :
(transitive) To lodge (a person) in a hostel.
(n) :
(obsolete) A public hotel.