I. ˈhōstə̇s noun
( -es )
Etymology: Middle English ostesse, hostesse, from Old French, from oste, hoste host, guest + -esse -ess — more at host
1. : a female innkeeper
had a good understanding with the brother of mine hostess — Washington Irving
2. : a woman who receives and entertains guests socially
successful party giving amounts to little more than the friendly enthusiasm of the host and hostess — Emily Post
3. : one whose job is to serve patrons: as
a. : a woman in charge of a public dining room who seats diners and ensures pleasant and efficient service
b. : a woman who directs social activities at a hotel or resort
c.
(1) : a woman employed by a railroad or bus line to give personal service to passengers
(2) : air hostess
d. : a woman who acts as social partner in a dance hall or nightclub
II. verb
( -ed/-ing/-es )
intransitive verb
: to act as hostess
had to arrange for the afternoon she was hostessing — W.L.George
transitive verb
: to serve as hostess at
enjoyed hostessing the party