Doorkeeper: meaning, definitions and examples

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doorkeeper

 

[ ˈdɔːˌkiː.pər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

at a hotel

A doorkeeper is a person whose job is to control who goes in and out of a building, especially a hotel. They often welcome guests, help with luggage, and provide information about the hotel's facilities.

Synonyms

bellhop, commissionaire, porter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
doorkeeper

Typically employed in large buildings, offices, or institutions to control access and maintain security at the entrance.

  • The doorkeeper checked the visitor's ID before allowing entrance.
  • A polite doorkeeper greeted us as we entered the building.
porter

Versatile term used in various settings, such as hotels, hospitals, and train stations, where they mainly assist with carrying luggage and other items. Can sometimes have a less formal connotation.

  • We asked the porter to help with our heavy suitcases.
  • The hospital porters are always busy moving equipment and patients.
bellhop

Commonly used in hotel settings to help guests with their luggage and other services.

  • The bellhop quickly took our bags to the room.
  • We tipped the bellhop for his excellent service.
commissionaire

Mostly used in British English, often employees of a company who provide services related to security, greeting, and assistance at the entrance of buildings, particularly in upscale environments.

  • The commissionaire opened the car door for us as we arrived.
  • The commissionaire was very courteous and made sure we found our way.

Examples of usage

  • The doorkeeper greeted us with a smile as we entered the hotel.
  • The doorkeeper helped us with our luggage and directed us to the reception desk.
Context #2 | Noun

in a residential building

A doorkeeper can also refer to a person responsible for opening and closing doors, accepting deliveries, and monitoring visitors in a residential building or apartment complex.

Synonyms

caretaker, concierge, doorman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
doorkeeper

Primarily used to describe someone who watches the entrance of a building, often in a formal or official capacity.

  • The doorkeeper checked everyone's ID before letting them enter the building.
  • The doorkeeper nodded as she walked past.
doorman

Informally used to describe someone responsible for opening doors and sometimes assisting with security, usually in apartments, hotels, or clubs.

  • The doorman greeted every guest with a smile.
  • She handed her keys to the doorman as she entered the building.
concierge

Typically used in the context of hotels or luxury apartment buildings, referring to someone who assists guests with various services.

  • The concierge helped us book a table at the restaurant.
  • If you need any recommendations, just ask the concierge.
caretaker

Used for someone who takes care of a property or someone who needs assistance, such as an elderly person or a child.

  • The caretaker cleaned the hall and took care of all the repairs.
  • He works as a caretaker for his aging parents.

Examples of usage

  • The doorkeeper ensures the security of the building by monitoring who enters and leaves.
  • The doorkeeper accepts packages on behalf of the residents.

Translations

Translations of the word "doorkeeper" in other languages:

🇵🇹 porteiro

🇮🇳 दरबान

🇩🇪 Türsteher

🇮🇩 penjaga pintu

🇺🇦 швейцар

🇵🇱 odźwierny

🇯🇵 門番 (もんばん)

🇫🇷 portier

🇪🇸 portero

🇹🇷 kapıcı

🇰🇷 문지기

🇸🇦 بواب

🇨🇿 vrátný

🇸🇰 vrátnik

🇨🇳 门卫 (ménwèi)

🇸🇮 vratar

🇮🇸 dyravörður

🇰🇿 есіктегі күзетші

🇬🇪 კარის მცველი (karis mcveli)

🇦🇿 qapıcı

🇲🇽 portero

Etymology

The term 'doorkeeper' dates back to the early 19th century and is derived from the combination of 'door' and 'keeper'. Doorkeepers have been a common feature in various societies throughout history, playing a crucial role in managing access to buildings and ensuring security. Over time, the role of a doorkeeper has evolved to encompass not only security but also hospitality and customer service.

See also: door, doorman, doormat, doorway, indoor, indoors, outdoor, outdoors.