Porter
/ˈpɔːrtər/
Definitions
3 meaningsA person whose job is to carry things, especially luggage.
/ˈpɔːrtər/
A person employed to carry luggage and other loads, especially in a train station, airport, or hotel.
I tipped the porter for carrying my bags to my hotel room.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're at the airport with tons of bags. A porter is like a helpful superhero who carries your stuff for you! They make sure you don't have to struggle with all the heavy things.
👶 For kids: A porter is someone who carries your bags for you.
More Examples
The porter at the train station helped me load my luggage onto the train.
We relied on the porter to assist us with our luggage when arriving at the hotel.
How It's Used
"The porter helped the passengers with their heavy suitcases."
"The hotel porter greeted guests and assisted them with their belongings."
A person stationed at a door or gate to control entry.
/ˈpɔːrtər/
A person who guards a door or gate; a gatekeeper.
The porter at the castle refused entry to the unwelcome guests.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, a building needs a 'gatekeeper,' someone at the door who decides who gets in. This person, often called a porter, might check your ID or tell you where to go.
👶 For kids: A porter is someone who opens the door for people.
More Examples
The porter at the gallery checked tickets before allowing visitors inside.
The security porter was on duty all night.
How It's Used
"In medieval times, the porter controlled access to the castle."
"The porter at the building entrance checked IDs."
A dark beer with a malty flavor.
/ˈpɔːrtər/
A dark brown beer brewed from roasted malt.
The porter had a rich, chocolatey aroma.
💡 Simply: Imagine a beer that's dark and rich like coffee, but with a slightly sweet and roasted taste. That's a porter! It's a special kind of beer that many people enjoy with dinner or at a pub.
👶 For kids: A porter is a kind of dark beer.
More Examples
She enjoyed a porter with her steak.
The brewery specialized in crafting traditional porters.
How It's Used
"The pub offered a selection of ales and porters."
"He ordered a pint of porter to accompany his meal."
Idioms & expressions
porter's lodge
A room where a porter works or resides, often at the entrance to a building.
"The porter's lodge was located at the front of the hotel."
From Old French portier, from Latin portare (to carry). Originally referred to someone who carried goods or luggage.
Historically, porters were essential in transportation hubs and large estates, providing a vital service for travelers and residents.
Memory tip
Think of a person who 'ports' your luggage from one place to another.
Word Origin
"To carry"