ENGLISH
REFERENCE

hospitality

n.
US //ˌhɑspəˈtæɫəti// UK //hˌɒspɪtˈælɪti// hos·pi·tal·i·ty
  1. 1 friendly treatment of guests (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the friendly and generous way you treat guests or visitors in your home or country.

    the act or practice of being hospitable; the reception and entertainment of guests or strangers with liberality and goodwill.

    Example

    We were overwhelmed by the warm hospitality of the local people during our trip.

    Example

    The villagers are renowned for their traditional hospitality, often inviting weary travellers into their homes for a shared meal and a place to rest.

    Usage

    Often used with the adjectives 'warm', 'generous', or 'traditional'.
  2. 2 the service industry (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the business of providing food, drink, and rooms for people in hotels or restaurants.

    the commercial sector concerned with the provision of accommodation, catering, and entertainment.

    Example

    After finishing her degree, she found a job in the hospitality industry.

    Example

    The global hospitality sector faced significant challenges during the pandemic as international travel came to a virtual standstill.

    Usage

    Frequently appears in the compound noun 'hospitality industry'.
    • service industry
    • hotel trade
  3. 3 food and drink for guests (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the food, drink, or entertainment that a company provides for its guests or customers.

    the provision of food, beverages, and entertainment to clients or guests, often in a corporate or professional context.

    Example

    The ticket price includes full hospitality with a three-course meal before the match.

    Example

    Corporate hospitality at the tennis tournament allows firms to network with high-profile clients in a relaxed, luxury environment.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'corporate hospitality'.
Origin

From Middle English hospitalite, from Old French hospitalité (modern French hospitalité), from Latin hospitālitās (“hospitality”), from hospitālis (“hospitable”), from hospes (“guest", "host”). Displaced native Old English cumlīþnes (literally “guest gentleness”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 20, 2026