One of the Eligibility requirement before applying for N400 is 'Have lived within the state, or USCIS district with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence, for at least 3 months prior to the date of filing the application.'
What does 'lived' mean? Does it mean that the applicant has dwelled at the residence for 3 months OR has maintained the residence for 3 months?
My scenario: I have lived at my current residence for 8 months. And plan to live there for atleast another year. I am eligible to file N400 after 2 months (60 days) on 2/29/17. But I might have to travel overseas for 3 weeks during January 2017. So I will not be physically present at my residence during my travel. 1) Can I file N400 on 2/29/2017 after my return, or 2) do I have to wait for another 3 months after my return (to fulfill the 3 months 'live' requirement) before filing N400? Please advise.

