Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈhoʊstɪs/ (American English), /ˈhɒstɪs/ (British English)

Definitions

• 1. A woman who receives or entertains guests in her home or elsewhere.
• 2. A woman employed to serve food and drinks in a restaurant, bar, or similar establishment.
• 3. A woman who presents a television or radio program.
• 4. A woman who is in charge of a group of people or an event, such as a flight attendant.

Usage Examples

• "The hostess greeted us at the door and showed us to our table."
• "She worked as a hostess in the restaurant for several years."
• "The TV hostess was known for her charming personality and quick wit."
• "The flight hostess ensured all passengers were comfortable during the journey."

Etymology

The word "hostess" comes from the Latin word "hospes," meaning "guest" or "host." The word evolved through Old French "hotesse" and Middle English "hostesse" to its current form. It has been used since the 14th century to refer to a female host or woman who provides hospitality.

Synonyms

• Entertainer
• Receptionist
• Waitress
• Stewardess
• Presenter

Antonyms

• Guest
• Visitor
• Customer
• Attendee

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈhɒstɪs/
• American English: /ˈhoʊstɪs/
• Indian English: /ˈhɒstɪs/

Historical Usage

Historically, the word "hostess" has been used to describe a woman who provides hospitality, especially by entertaining guests in her home. The role of a hostess became more formalized with the rise of inns, restaurants, and entertainment venues, where women were employed to serve food, drinks, and provide a welcoming atmosphere. In the 20th century, the term expanded to include women hosting television and radio programs, as well as those working in customer-facing roles like flight attendants and receptionists.

Cultural Nuances

In different cultures, the role of a hostess varies. In many Western societies, a hostess is often a woman who entertains guests in her home or organizes events. In Eastern cultures, the concept of hosting is often seen as a communal responsibility, with hospitality viewed as an essential value. The hostess role, whether in a home, restaurant, or business, is often associated with grace, politeness, and the ability to make guests feel welcome and comfortable. In many contexts, the hostess is expected to manage the atmosphere and ensure that all guests have a pleasant experience.

More Information

The term "hostess" has evolved significantly over time. While historically it referred specifically to a woman in charge of hosting guests, the modern usage of the term spans various professions. Today, a hostess may work in a variety of fields, including restaurants, airlines, television, and other service industries. The role is often characterized by customer service, organizational skills, and the ability to manage a group or event. The word "hostess" can sometimes carry gendered connotations, but it remains widely used to describe women in hosting roles, even though the male equivalent "host" is also used in many contexts.