Innkeeper: meaning, definitions and examples
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innkeeper
[ ˈɪnˌkiːpər ]
hotel management
An innkeeper is a person who owns or manages an inn or similar establishment that provides lodging for travelers. Traditionally, innkeepers would offer meals and other services to guests, often ensuring that their stay was comfortable and enjoyable. In many cultures, the role of the innkeeper has historical significance, often representing hospitality and community support. Today, the term may also encompass modern hotel managers who oversee operations and guest services in a more commercial context.
Synonyms
host, hotelier, landlord, proprietor
Examples of usage
- The innkeeper greeted us with a warm smile.
- In the medieval times, the innkeeper played a vital role in the local economy.
- Many stories feature an innkeeper as a central character.
- The innkeeper provided us with helpful recommendations for local attractions.
Translations
Translations of the word "innkeeper" in other languages:
🇵🇹 estalajadeiro
🇮🇳 होटल मालिक
🇩🇪 Wirt
- Gastwirt
- Hotelier
🇮🇩 penginapan
🇺🇦 господар готелю
🇵🇱 karczmarz
- właściciel gospody
- hotelarz
🇯🇵 宿屋の主人
🇫🇷 aubergiste
🇪🇸 posadero
- tabernero
- hotelero
🇹🇷 han sahibi
🇰🇷 여관 주인
🇸🇦 مالك النزل
🇨🇿 hostinský
🇸🇰 hostinský
🇨🇳 旅馆老板
🇸🇮 gostilničar
🇮🇸 gestgjafi
🇰🇿 қонақ үй иесі
🇬🇪 მოსამსახურე
🇦🇿 otel sahibi
🇲🇽 posadero
Etymology
The word 'innkeeper' originates from the Old English term 'inn', which referred to a lodging place or public house where travelers could rest. This term has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'ina', meaning 'to stay' or 'to dwell'. The word 'keeper' comes from the Old English 'ceapian', meaning 'to save or to guard'. Hence, an innkeeper literally refers to a person who guards or manages an inn. Over the centuries, inns evolved from simple lodging houses to more elaborate establishments, incorporating dining and entertainment facilities for guests. The role of the innkeeper has changed significantly, reflecting the social and economic conditions of different historical periods, but the essence of hospitality remains at the core of their duties.