Hostess
'hoʊstəs
Definitions
2 meaningsA woman who receives and entertains guests; a female host.
'hoʊstəs
A woman who receives or entertains guests.
The hostess greeted the guests at the door and showed them to their tables.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're having a party! The hostess is the awesome person who greets everyone, helps them find snacks, and makes sure they're having a great time. Think of the person welcoming you at the entrance of a restaurant.
👶 For kids: The person in charge of a party or welcoming people to a restaurant. She's the friendly lady who helps you find a seat!
More Examples
She was a gracious hostess and made everyone feel comfortable.
The restaurant's hostess was efficient and friendly.
How It's Used
"The hostess welcomed everyone with a warm smile."
"The hostess seated us at a table by the window."
"The hostess of the ball was known for her elegance and grace."
A woman employed to greet and seat customers in a restaurant or other establishment.
'hoʊstəs
A woman employed to serve customers in a restaurant or bar.
The hostess asked if we had a reservation.
💡 Simply: Ever been to a restaurant and someone greets you and shows you where to sit? That person is the hostess! They make sure people have a place to enjoy their meal.
👶 For kids: Someone who welcomes you and helps you find a table in a restaurant.
More Examples
The hostess was very friendly and helpful.
She worked as a hostess at a busy Italian restaurant.
How It's Used
"The hostess showed us to our table."
"The hostess at the nightclub was responsible for seating guests."
Idioms & expressions
hostess with the mostess
A person who is a particularly good or gracious host.
"She was the hostess with the mostess, making sure everyone was having a wonderful time at the party."
From Old French *hostesse*, feminine of *hoste* ("host"), ultimately from Latin *hospes* ("guest, host").
Historically, the term 'hostess' has been used in both social and commercial contexts to describe women who extend hospitality.
Memory tip
Think of a hostess at a party: she's the one making sure everyone feels welcome.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: hospes