kiosk
KEE-osk
/ˈkiːɒsk/
A small, open-fronted hut or stand from which newspapers, refreshments, or services are sold.
In a mall, these are the small booths located in the middle of the concourse rather than in a walled shop.
The story behind the word. It comes from the Persian 'kushk', meaning a palace or pavilion. It entered English via the Turkish 'köşk' and French 'kiosque'.
Word relationships
- booth: A booth is often temporary; a kiosk is usually a semi-permanent structure.
Commonly confused with
- boutique: A boutique is a room you enter; a kiosk is a stand you walk up to.
Collocations
- information kiosk
- mall kiosk
- digital kiosk
Example sentences
- "I stopped at a small kiosk in the hallway to buy a new screen protector for my phone." A typical mall interaction.
Memory hook
A 'Kiosk' is a 'Key' spot for a 'Quick' stop. The shop in the middle of the hall.
When not to use
Do not use for a full-sized store with a door.
Fun facts
- In many countries, 'kiosk' specifically refers to a place where you buy newspapers and cigarettes.
Related words
Explore more words
refreshments, pavilion, concourse, vendor, cubicle, drive-thru
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