Hostelry

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈhɒs.tə.ləri/ (British English), /ˈhɑːs.tə.ləri/ (American English)

Definitions

• 1. A place that provides accommodation, food, and other services for travelers; a hostel, inn, or other lodging establishment.
• 2. The business or practice of operating a hostel or other lodging facility.

Usage Examples

• "The village is home to a charming hostelry offering rooms with a view of the countryside."
• "We stayed at a local hostelry during our hike across the mountains."
• "The hostelry's service was excellent, and the rooms were very comfortable."

Etymology

The word "hostelry" comes from the Middle English "hostelrie," derived from Old French "hôtel" (meaning a lodging place) and the word "hostel," which refers to an inn or place of accommodation. The root word "hostel" comes from the Latin "hospitium," meaning "place for guests." The suffix "-ery" denotes a place or establishment associated with a particular activity, in this case, lodging and hospitality.

Synonyms

• Inn
• Hotel
• Guesthouse
• Hostel
• Resort

Antonyms

• Private residence
• Home
• Apartment

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈhɒs.tə.ləri/
• American English: /ˈhɑːs.tə.ləri/
• Indian English: /ˈhɒs.tə.ləri/

Historical Usage

Historically, "hostelry" referred to any place offering lodging and meals, particularly inns or guesthouses. In medieval times, hostels and hostels were often the only form of lodging for travelers and pilgrims, offering a combination of food, shelter, and sometimes medical care. With the development of more sophisticated forms of accommodation in the modern era, the word "hostelry" has mostly been replaced by more specific terms such as "hotel" or "inn." However, it is still used in some regions and contexts, particularly in relation to older or more traditional establishments that offer basic lodging and meals.

Cultural Nuances

The term "hostelry" carries a historical connotation and is often used to evoke a sense of older, simpler accommodations. In many cultures, especially those with a long history of hospitality and tourism, the term reflects the tradition of providing a welcoming environment for travelers. In some countries, the idea of a hostelry remains tied to the notion of a family-run or community-focused place where guests feel like part of the household, offering a personal and homey atmosphere that larger hotels may lack.

More Information

Hostelry establishments have been a key part of the travel and tourism industry for centuries, dating back to medieval times when inns and hostels served as crucial stopping points for merchants, pilgrims, and travelers. Over the years, the nature of hostelry has evolved, with many modern hotels and motels taking over the functions originally served by hostels and guesthouses. Today, "hostelry" is less commonly used in everyday language but can still be found in historical or literary references to older forms of accommodation. In some parts of the world, the term remains in use, especially for modest lodging options designed for people looking for affordable, no-frills accommodation.