Hospitality
/ˌhɒspɪˈtælɪti/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of being friendly and welcoming to guests and visitors, often including providing food, drink, and a place to stay.
/ˌhɒspɪˈtælɪti/
The friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers.
The resort is renowned for its outstanding hospitality, offering guests a luxurious experience.
💡 Simply: Hospitality is like being a super-duper welcoming host! Imagine inviting friends over for a party. You offer them snacks, drinks, and a comfy place to hang out. You're being hospitable!
👶 For kids: Being nice and friendly to guests or visitors, like giving them food or a place to sleep.
More Examples
The local community showed incredible hospitality to the refugees, providing shelter and support.
Their kindness and hospitality made us feel right at home.
How It's Used
"The hotel chain is known for its excellent hospitality."
"We experienced wonderful hospitality from the local villagers."
"She extended warm hospitality to all the guests."
The industry and businesses that provide services such as food, drink, and accommodation to people who are away from home.
/ˌhɒspɪˈtælɪti/
The business of providing services to guests, visitors, or strangers, such as accommodation or food.
The hospitality sector is a significant contributor to the local economy.
💡 Simply: Hospitality can also mean the whole business of helping travelers feel comfortable. Think hotels, restaurants, and tour guides; they are all part of hospitality!
👶 For kids: When people run businesses like hotels and restaurants, they're in the hospitality business!
More Examples
She has a degree in hospitality management.
The company provides training programs for the hospitality industry.
How It's Used
"He works in the hospitality industry."
"The conference attracted a large number of hospitality professionals."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
extend hospitality
To offer welcoming treatment to guests.
"The family extended their hospitality by inviting us to stay for dinner."
hospitality industry
The sector of the economy that includes hotels, restaurants, and related businesses.
"He works in the hospitality industry, managing a large hotel."
From Old French *hospitalité*, from Latin *hospitalitas*, meaning 'friendliness to guests' or 'a place for guests.' Related to *hospitalis* ('hospitable') and *hospes* ('guest, host').
Historically, hospitality was essential, especially in times of travel or war, with travelers relying on strangers for shelter and sustenance. This historical need shaped the meaning and importance of the word.
Memory tip
Think of a hospital, which is a place where people are cared for. Hospitality is like caring for guests.
Word Origin
"guest, host"