# hospitality

/ˌhɑspəˈtæɫəti/ (US) · /hˌɒspɪtˈælɪti/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hospitality
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. friendly treatment of guests

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

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

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

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

### 3. food and drink for guests

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

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

## Examples

- Thank you for your wonderful hospitality this weekend.
- The local people are famous for their hospitality, often inviting travelers into their homes for tea.
- The region's economy relies heavily on the hospitality sector, which encompasses everything from luxury resorts to small family-run bed and breakfasts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.