Headwaiter: meaning, definitions and examples

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headwaiter

 

[ ˈhɛdˌweɪtə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

restaurant service

A headwaiter is the person in charge of the waitstaff in a restaurant. They oversee the dining area, manage the servers, and ensure that customers receive excellent service. The headwaiter may also assist in menu planning and customer interactions to enhance the dining experience.

Synonyms

maître d', service manager, waitstaff supervisor.

Examples of usage

  • The headwaiter greeted us at the entrance.
  • She coordinated the team of waiters and waitresses.
  • The headwaiter recommended the chef's special.
  • He trained new staff on proper service techniques.

Translations

Translations of the word "headwaiter" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mestre de cerimónias

🇮🇳 मुख्य वेटर

🇩🇪 Oberkellner

🇮🇩 pelayan utama

🇺🇦 старший офіціант

🇵🇱 główny kelner

🇯🇵 ヘッドウェイター

🇫🇷 chef de rang

🇪🇸 jefe de camareros

🇹🇷 baş garson

🇰🇷 헤드 웨이터

🇸🇦 النادل الرئيسي

🇨🇿 hlavní číšník

🇸🇰 hlavný čašník

🇨🇳 总服务员

🇸🇮 glavni natakar

🇮🇸 aðalþjónn

🇰🇿 басты аспаз

🇬🇪 მთავარი მიმტანი

🇦🇿 baş ofisiant

🇲🇽 jefe de meseros

Etymology

The term 'headwaiter' is derived from the combination of 'head,' meaning the leader or chief, and 'waiter,' which originates from the Old French word 'waitier,' meaning 'to serve.' The role became prominent in upscale dining establishments where hierarchies among staff were necessary for efficient service. In the 19th century, especially in Europe and North America, as dining out became a common social activity, the position of headwaiter evolved to include responsibilities such as managing the restaurant floor and ensuring quality service. This role ultimately reflects the changing dynamics of social gatherings, where dining service shifted from merely providing food to creating an elaborate customer experience.