hospitality

American  

[hos-pi-tal-i-tee] / ˌhɒs pɪˈtæl ɪ ti /

noun

plural

hospitalities

1. the friendly reception and treatment of guests or strangers.

   Hospitality at the hotel is fantastic, with staff who offered us refreshing drinks and comfortable chairs while we waited to check in.

2. the quality or disposition of receiving and treating guests and strangers in a warm, friendly, generous way.

   In many cultures, hospitality plays a significant role in social interactions, as individuals are often judged by their ability to extend kindness and generosity toward others.

   Synonyms:

   friendliness, geniality, cordiality, warmth

3. the business or act of providing accommodation, food, drink, and other services to guests (often used attributively).

   She has held several executive-level positions in hospitality.

   This course will appeal to students who want to make a career for themselves in the hospitality industry.

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hospitality British  

/ ˌhɒspɪˈtælɪtɪ /

noun

1. kindness in welcoming strangers or guests

2. receptiveness

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Etymology

Origin of hospitality

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English hospitalite, from Middle French, from Latin hospitālitās, from hospitāli(s) “of a guest, hospitable” ( see hospital) + -tās -ty ²

Explanation

A reputation for hospitality means you're known for being kind and welcoming to visitors, which may also mean that you always have a full house at Thanksgiving. Hospitalitem is a Latin word meaning "friendliness to guests," so it's not hard to see where the word hospitality comes from. Showing hospitality involves making others feel comfortable and welcome in your home. If you're grumpy and prefer to be left alone, this word probably won't ever be used to describe you, nor are you likely headed for a career in the hospitality industry.

Example Sentences

Comparable revenue per available room—or RevPar, an important metric in the hospitality industry—rose 3.6% on a constant currency basis.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

A spokeswoman said “sponsorship and hospitality options” will help offset the event cost, which is to be determined.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

Now her income is split between two jobs, earning around 70% from social media content and 30% from hospitality, where she works 10-hour shifts, three days a week.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

Unsurprisingly, healthcare, skilled trades, education and hospitality were identified as those expected to see less immediate change.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026

“Much obliged for your hospitality, your friendship, and your food.”

From "Stella by Starlight" by Sharon M. Draper

Related Words

• accommodation
• companionship
• friendliness
• generosity
• reception
• warmth