Guests Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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guests

[ษกests ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

at a party

People who have been invited to attend a social event such as a party or wedding.

Synonyms

attendees, invitees, visitors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guests

Typically used for people who have been invited to a social or formal event.

  • We are expecting about 50 guests at the wedding.
  • Our guests enjoyed the dinner party.
attendees

Used for people who are present at an event or gathering, usually more formal, like meetings, conferences, or lectures.

  • The conference had over 300 attendees.
  • Attendees must register upon arrival.
visitors

General term used for people who are visiting a place, such as a tourist spot, museum, or someone's home.

  • The museum welcomed over a thousand visitors last weekend.
  • Our visitors should arrive by noon.
invitees

Refers to people who have been invited to attend an event, often formal, and emphasizes the act of invitation.

  • The invitees arrived promptly at the gala.
  • Only special invitees were allowed entry.

Examples of usage

  • The host greeted all the guests at the entrance.
  • There are over 100 guests expected at the wedding.
  • The guests enjoyed the delicious food and music at the party.
Context #2 | Noun

hotel

People who are staying temporarily at a hotel or other accommodation.

Synonyms

lodgers, residents.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guests

Use 'guests' when referring to people invited to visit a place temporarily or for an event, like a party or a hotel stay.

  • We are expecting several guests for dinner tonight.
  • The hotel offers complimentary breakfast for all its guests.
lodgers

Use 'lodgers' when referring to people who rent a room in someone else's house, often for an extended period of time.

  • We have two lodgers staying with us until the end of the year.
  • The landlord provides meals for all the lodgers.
residents

Use 'residents' when referring to people who live in a particular place, usually for a long term. Often used for apartment buildings, cities, or countries.

  • The residents of the apartment complex usually meet in the common area on weekends.
  • The city has over a million residents.

Examples of usage

  • The hotel staff welcomed the guests upon their arrival.
  • The guests complained about the noise coming from the neighboring room.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, guests are treated with utmost respect and often provided with the best food and accommodations.
  • The Arab tradition of hospitality includes 'sha'ban,' a ceremony where guests are celebrated with lavish meals.
  • Some cultures have specific rituals to welcome guests, like the Japanese tea ceremony, highlighting respect and attention.

Literature

  • The theme of guests plays a key role in hospitality stories, such as 'The Odyssey,' where Odysseus meets numerous guests with varied interactions.
  • In 'A Midsummer Nightโ€™s Dream,' uninvited guests lead to mischief and misunderstanding, showcasing how visitors can impact events.
  • Tales from the Brothers Grimm often feature guests who bring luck or misfortune, reflecting the dual nature of hospitality.

Psychology

  • Having guests can significantly improve mood, as social interactions release oxytocin, the 'love hormone'.
  • Studies show that hosting events can foster a sense of community, enhancing well-being and reducing loneliness.
  • The presence of guests often encourages self-reflection on hospitality and generosity, impacting personal values.

Art

  • In visual arts, guests are often depicted in scenes of gatherings, emphasizing themes of connection and celebration.
  • Famous works such as 'The Last Supper' illustrate the importance of guests sharing meals and the relationships forged in those moments.
  • Many paintings capture the essence of hospitality through the portrayal of hosts and guests, narrating stories of acceptance and warmth.

Origin of 'guests'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'guest' comes from the Old English 'gรฆst,' which meant a person who is welcomed or graced.
  • Related to the Proto-Germanic word 'gastiz,' referring to a spirit or soul, linking visitors with warmth and hospitality.
  • In many cultures, the idea of being a guest carries significant social duties, often seen as an honored role.

The word 'guests' originated from the Old French word 'geste', meaning 'a stranger or guest'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to individuals who are invited to events or who stay temporarily at accommodations. The concept of hospitality towards guests has been a cultural norm in various societies throughout history.


See also: guest, guesthouse.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,194, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.