waitress

[wey-tris]

noun

1. a woman who waits on tables, as in a restaurant.

verb (used without object)

1. to work or serve as a waitress.

   She waitressed in a restaurant to help pay her way through college.

waitress

/ ˈweɪtrɪs /

noun

1. a woman who serves at table, as in a restaurant

verb

1. (intr) to act as a waitress

Gender Note

See -ess, -person.

Word History and Origins

Origin of waitress¹

First recorded in 1580–90; wait(e)r + -ess

Example Sentences

She was then working as a waitress and secretary, but already had dreams of living among animals in Africa.

From Salon

Goodall saved her earnings from a waitress job until she had enough for a round-trip ticket.

From Los Angeles Times

"There is anger in us. I want to change this government. I want young people to be in good jobs," Ettah Nyasulu, a 28-year-old waitress told the AFP press agency before heading out to vote.

From BBC

Her 2024 hosting gig on “SNL” included a sketch where she was dressed as a Hooters waitress, complete with ample cleavage.

From Los Angeles Times

Every day, Abi applies for part-time jobs to be a waitress or work in a shop.

From BBC

Related Words

• flight attendant 
• hostess 
• stewardess 
• waiter