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hospitality

hos-pih-TAL-uh-tee /ˌhɑːspɪˈtæləti/

nounB2TOEFLIELTS

neutralformal

The friendly, generous, and welcoming reception and treatment of guests or visitors.

Refers both to an ethos of warm welcoming and to the broader economic sector of hotels, restaurants, and tourism.

The story behind the word. Rooted in Latin 'hospes', an intriguing word ancient Romans used for both 'host' and 'guest' due to mutual duties of shelter. It passed into Old French as 'hospitalité' before taking on its modern meaning of generous guest reception.

Word relationships

welcomeness: 'Welcomeness' describes an inviting mood, whereas 'hospitality' includes physical care like food and lodging.
cordiality: 'Cordiality' refers to personal warmth, while 'hospitality' includes systemic customer care.

hostility: Unfriendliness or resistance toward visitors.

Commonly confused with

hospital: 'Hospital' is a medical care facility, whereas 'hospitality' is guest care and entertainment.

Word family

hospitable (adjective): Welcoming and generous toward guests.
hospitably (adverb): In a welcoming and generous manner.

Collocations

warm hospitality
hospitality industry
gracious hospitality
hospitality sector

Idioms & expressions

open house

Example sentences

"The family-run bistro earned an excellent reputation for genuine warmth and traditional hospitality." Industry review
"Success in the hospitality sector requires strong communication skills and emotional empathy." Career guidance

Memory hook

A HOSPitable host offers great HOSPITALITY. Warm care for guests.

When not to use

Do not use as a synonym for medical health care, despite sharing a Latin root with 'hospital'.

Fun facts

Hospitality, hospital, hostel, host, and hotel all come from the exact same Latin root: 'hospes'.