hostess

Everyday

1. A woman who invites guests and looks after them at a party or in her home. tree →
2. A woman who greets people in a restaurant or presents a show. tree →
3. (old use) A woman who looks after passengers on a plane — today called a flight attendant. tree →

In the lessons

In stories and everyday life: «She was a kind hostess.» In restaurants a hostess shows you to your table. Game shows have a host or hostess. Today many people use «host» for any gender.

Examples

• Mum was the hostess of the birthday party. tree →
• The hostess showed us to our table. tree →
• A good hostess makes sure everyone has a drink. tree →
• The hostess of the quiz show read the questions. tree →
• Thank the hostess when you leave. tree →
• My nan is a wonderful hostess at Christmas. tree →
• "Our good hostess has made kings of us all," said one. tree →

Note

Plural: hostesses. Male form: host. Today «host» is often used for women too, and «air hostess» is old — say «flight attendant».