What does "waitress" mean?

1. (female server) a woman who serves food and drinks to people at their tables in a restaurant. 2. (to work as a server) to work as a waitress in a restaurant.

How do you use "waitress"?

While still common, many modern speakers prefer the gender-neutral term 'server' to avoid specifying the person's gender. This verb is often used intransitively or with the preposition 'at'.

waitress

n. · v.

US //ˈweɪtɹəs// UK //wˈeɪtɹəs// wait·ress

1 female server (n.)
A1 Beginner

a woman who serves food and drinks to people at their tables in a restaurant.

a female attendant who serves customers in a restaurant, café, or similar establishment.

Example

The waitress brought us some extra napkins and more water for the table.

Example

The waitress managed the busy lunch rush with impressive efficiency, ensuring every table received their orders without delay.

Usage

While still common, many modern speakers prefer the gender-neutral term 'server' to avoid specifying the person's gender.

Teacher's tip

In modern English, 'waiter' is sometimes used for both men and women, but 'waitress' remains specific to women.
- server
- waitstaff
- waiter
2 to work as a server (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

to work as a waitress in a restaurant.

to perform the duties of a waitress; to serve food and drink professionally.

Example

She waitressed at a local diner during the summer to save money for college.

Example

He recalled how his sister had waitressed throughout her university years to supplement her scholarship income.

Usage

This verb is often used intransitively or with the preposition 'at'.
- serve
- wait tables

Origin

From waiter + -ess.