hospitality

/ˌhɑspɪˈtæləti/ (American pronunciation)

Origin

From Old French hospitalité, derived from Latin hospitalitas, from hospes meaning "host" or "guest"

Meanings

1. The friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers
2. The quality or disposition of being hospitable
3. The business of providing accommodations, meals, and other services for travelers or tourists

Example Sentences

1. The small town was known for its warm hospitality towards visitors.
2. The hotel staff demonstrated excellent hospitality throughout our stay.
3. Southern hospitality is often characterized by politeness and generosity.

Related Words

• Hospitable (adjective)
• Hospitably (adverb)
• Host (noun/verb)
• Hostess (noun)
• Inhospitable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Warmth
• Welcome
• Friendliness
• Generosity
• Cordiality

Memorization Trick

Think of "hospitality" as "hospital-ity" – just as a hospital takes care of patients, hospitality involves taking care of guests or visitors. Both involve providing comfort and attention to those in need.